Jets insider reveals draft pick Darrell Jackson Jr.'s likely role heading into 2026

The New York Jets put an emphasis on overhauling their defensive line this offseason, considering the major changes the position has seen over the last year.

It started with the Jermaine Johnson trade, that net the Jets their new nose tackle T'Vondre Sweat. The 2024 second-round pick expects to play a key role in New York's new defensive scheme.

In free agency, they added veteran David Onyemata, who should help bring some more pass-rush juice to the Jets front. Onyemata is familiar with head coach Aaron Glenn thanks to his time with the New Orleans Saints.

The Jets even made an addition in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the team selecting Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. at the top of the fourth round. But with the room as deep as it is, what kind of role will Jackson play next season?

Rich Cimini says Jets draft pick Darrell Jackson Jr. will likely take a 'redshirt' year in 2026

On the Jets Collective podcast, ESPN's Rich Cimini reported that Jackson Jr. is unlikely to see the field much in 2026, thanks to the veteran depth in front of him. That doesn't mean he won't have a chance to play later down the line, though.

"I think this was a future pick. I do not think Darrell Jackson Jr. will be playing a lot. He will probably be an inactive player for much of the year. It's essentially a redshirt year for him."

Rich Cimini

Cimini noted that at first glance, it didn't make much sense for the Jets to draft a defensive tackle with an early Day 3 pick, considering the amount of veteran depth they have on the roster.

But considering both Harrison Phillips and recent addition Onyemata are only under contract for one more season, it's clear New York needed at least one defensive tackle waiting in the wings for future use.

It's in Jackson's best interest to sit and learn for at least one season. At 6-foot-5, 337 pounds, he has the physical tools to succeed in the NFL, but is still raw. He's already a solid run defender, but he needs to refine his pass rush skills.

In 2026, the defensive line rotation will likely feature Sweat, Phillips, Onyemata, and Jowon Briggs, with Kinglsey Engabre rotating in on obvious passing downs.

For now, Jackson will ride the bench. But he has a shot to be a mainstay on New York's interior defensive front for years to come.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow