It might just be preseason, but New York Jets fans can still celebrate their team's dominant performance against the Green Bay Packers. The Jets won their opener 30-10, leading the game from whistle to whistle.
Sure, it doesn't actually count in the standings, but the Jets showed that they have more talent and depth than fans may have expected.
A few lesser-known players made their mark on the first semi-real action of the season. If they keep up their impressive performances, they may end up rising up the depth chart.
Preseason stock is rising for these 3 Jets players
TE/FB Andrew Beck
Andrew Beck was all over the place for the Jets. He lined up as a fullback, an inline tight end, and even played a snap as a slot receiver. He caught two passes, including a 24-yard catch-and-run from Justin Fields.
Beck has bounced around the NFL since signing with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2019.
Rookie tight end Mason Taylor will still play an important role in this offense, but Beck seems to be a chess piece that they'll use in a variety of ways. If he continues his current form, offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand will be forced to find a way to get him on the field.
RB Donovan Edwards
A year ago, Donovan Edwards was one of the biggest stars in college football. The 212-pound running back was coming off a National Championship victory with Michigan and had his sights set on becoming an early draft pick. After a disappointing final year of his collegiate career, Edwards went undrafted and signed with the Jets.
Well, he found some of that star power again in his preseason debut. Edwards had a team-high 47 rushing yards and broke off a long touchdown that was called back for holding. He looked like a true NFL back, albeit against backups.
If Edwards still ends up getting cut by the Jets, another team might be quick to scoop him up.
DT Jay Tufele
It's still early, but Jay Tufele seems to be challenging for the second starting defensive tackle position alongside Quinnen Williams. He finished with 1.5 sacks, showcasing his explosiveness and strength.
The defensive tackle position next to Williams is unsettled at this point. Byron Cowart was listed first in the team’s initial depth chart, but Tufele has a chance to overtake him if he keeps playing like this.