Jets bring in former Bears CB Nahshon Wright as latest defensive addition

The New York Jets aren't done adding to their defense, agreeing to terms on a one-year, $5,5 million deal with former Chicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

Wright had a breakout season in 2025, earning Pro Bowl honors with his five interceptions, 11 pass break-ups, and two forced fumbles. Clearly, he has a knack for turnovers, and the Jets are betting on the fact that he can replicate that production in 2026.

The former Dallas Cowboys draft pick will have the chance to start opposite Brandon Stephens at cornerback, and hopefully push second-year cornerback Azareye'h Thomas' development in the right direction.

Jets make first cornerback move of the offseason with Nahshon Wright signing

Wright had some eye-popping numbers in 2025, recording career highs in just about every statistical category, but is still only signing a one-year, prove-it deal with the Jets. What gives?

NFL teams are likely weary of a one-year wonder. Before this season, Wright only had three career starts under his belt, and never showed much else besides being a depth piece.

The 99th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oregon State, Wright spent his first three years with the Cowboys before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for 2022 second-round draft pick Andrew Booth Jr. ahead of the 2024 season.

After not making an impact in Minnesota, Wright tested the free agent waters, landing a $1.1 million one-year contract with the Bears, before breaking out as one of the pick-artists of the 2025 season.

He graded out as the 47th-best cornerback, according to Pro Football Focus, likely due to his volatility in pass coverage. Wright can certainly make plays on the ball, but he gets beat from time to time as well.

As previously mentioned, he'll likely compete with 2025 third-round pick Azareye'h Thomas for the Jets' final starting cornerback spot. Wright could also be valuable depth if one of New York's corners gets hurt, too.

Regardless, the Jets' defensive overhaul has continued on Day 2 of the NFL's legal tampering period, and Wright is just another addition that raises the floor on Aaron Glenn's hopeful turnaround.