Jets set to debut son of former Pro Bowler vs Falcons in Week 13

The New York Jets will have a familiar NFL name on the field today, as undrafted rookie cornerback Jordan Clark, the son of former Pro Bowl safety and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark, is set to make his NFL debut against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Jets elevated Clark from the practice squad on Saturday, along with defensive end Eric Watts. Watts seems likely to replace Braiden McGregor on the active game-day roster, but Clark's elevation is a product of a late-week injury to a key starter.

Starting nickel cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. was added to the injury report on Friday with a hip issue, missed practice, and was downgraded to doubtful for today's game on Saturday.

That leaves the Jets thin at slot corner, making Clark’s elevation both timely and necessary. While veteran Isaiah Oliver is likely to handle most of the nickel duties, Clark will serve as important depth behind him and could also contribute on special teams.

Jordan Clark will make his Jets debut against the Falcons in Week 13

Clark signed with the Jets as a UDFA following the 2025 NFL Draft and has spent the entire season developing on the practice squad. The 5-foot-9, 184-pound nickel corner impressed in the summer with his instincts and physicality, enough to earn a spot despite being an older rookie (24) with modest athletic testing.

Clark posted a 63.4 Pro Football Focus grade and a 64.8 coverage grade in the preseason, allowing just 14 yards on five targets and adding three run stops. He fits the exact profile of a nickel-exclusive defender and clearly made an impression on head coach Aaron Glenn this past summer.

The 24-year-old spent five seasons at Arizona State, starting his final two years with the Sun Devils before transferring to Notre Dame for his sixth collegiate season in 2024. He'd go on to appear in all 16 games for the Irish, making eight starts, and carving out a role as a reliable slot defender known for his high football IQ.

With Brownlee expected to be sidelined, the Jets will likely rely on Oliver in the slot and Brandon Stephens and Azareye’h Thomas on the outside. Ja'Sir Taylor could also provide depth at nickel cornerback, but the Jets seem to prefer him and Qwan'tez Stiggers to be their backup boundary corners.

Clark may not see heavy snaps today, but his elevation fills a vital depth need and marks a significant milestone for a player who’s fought his way from UDFA to the active roster. And now, in Week 13, another branch of the Clark football lineage will officially take the field.