Jets draft pick's Super Bowl MVP uncle believes defense is ready to break out

The New York Jets made sweeping changes to their interior defensive line over the past calendar year, including trading for Harrison Phillips, Jowon Briggs, and T'Vondre Sweat, while also saying goodbye to a longtime fan favorite in Quinnen Williams.

Heading into 2026, it seems to be, at least on paper, a much-improved position group that will have a deep rotation. One player who won't see that large of a role next season, though, is 2026 fourth-round draft pick Darrell Jackson Jr.

The Jets selected Jackson with the 103rd overall pick out of Florida State, and he has some tantalizing upside. Thanks to the veteran depth ahead of him, he'll likely "redshirt" his rookie season.

But Jackson's Super Bowl MVP is still excited about his nephew's upside, and believes the Jets are primed to turn things around in 2026.

Dexter Jackson believes the Jets defense will turn it around in 2026

Dexter Jackson, a 10-year NFL veteran, Super Bowl XXXVII MVP, and uncle of the Jets' newest defensive tackle, spoke glowingly about New York in an interview with Betway.

"First of all, the Jets are going to be much better in 2026, and that’s not just because they drafted my nephew out of Florida State. The Jets’ biggest problem wasn’t their defense last season. I think it was their offense. If that talented defense can stay healthy and they have decent quarterback play, they may surprise a lot of people. The teams that are overlooked can often be the most dangerous."

Dexter Jackson

Jackson, who spent six years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, three with the Cincinnati Bengals, and one with the Arizona Cardinals, believes his nephew has a chance to really develop in New York thanks to the veteran additions they made this offseason.

"With the experience they have across the defense with guys like Demario Davis, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Harrison Phillips, and Joseph Ossai, (Jackson) can come in and learn a lot from these veteran players. When you look at (Jackson), he looks like somebody drew him. He looks like a superhero. He’s 6-foot-5, 337 pounds. It’s just amazing. I wish I were built like that. If he comes in and learns from those vets, buys into the system, and is willing to improve, I think he can be a vital piece of that defense."

Dexter Jackson

Jackson, the Jets' rookie, likely won't play a huge role in 2026 barring injuries. But if he ends up half as good as his Super Bowl-winning uncle, he should absolutely be on the right track.

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