Jets' latest signing signals concerted effort to maintain elite special teams

There weren't many things the New York Jets could hang their hat on in 2025, but special teams was certainly one of them. Under the guidance of first-time special teams coordinator Chris Banjo, the Jets were ranked in the top 10 in almost every major category for the often-forgotten third phase of the game.

Their latest move, the re-signing of former All-Pro kick returner Kene Nwangwu, signals that New York is doing everything it can to maintain that continuity heading into 2026. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that the Nwangwu contract is a one-year, $2 million deal with $1 million fully guaranteed and a max value of $3 million.

Nwangwu has explosive ability in the return game. Since 2022, he's returned five kicks for touchdowns, including two with the Jets. His problem is his health. Over two years with the Jets, he's appeared in only 14 of 34 possible games, but if he can stay on the field, he's an elite threat on special teams.

His return for a third season in New York is just the latest in a long line of moves this offseason that the Jets are making to ensure they stay great on special teams, despite already losing one key piece.

Kene Nwangwu's re-signing signals the Jets' special teams priorities

Outside of Nwangwu, New York has made a wide variety of re-signings to bring back their great special teamers from last season.

Special teams captain Marcelino McCrary-Ball was tendered before the start of free agency, ensuring he'll stay with the Jets for at least one more season, despite being hampered by injuries in 2025.

Full back Andrew Beck, a contributor on offense as well, was re-signed. He played 68% of special teams snaps last season.

Mykal Walker, as reported by the Jet Press, is returning as well. He played 81% of special teams snaps and was also quietly an elite linebacker over the final stretch of the 2025 season. He was Pro Football Focus’s eighth-highest grade linebacker from Weeks 14-18 (min. 130 snaps).

The only real loss the Jets suffered on special teams was kicker Nick Folk. Folk was the most consistent kicker New York had in a long time, converting 96.6% of his field goal attempts. He signed a two-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons at the start of free agency.

New York brought in Cade York as their new kicker, but there's expected to be a competition over the summer between him and Lenny Krieg to decide who will be the Jets' kicker in 2026.

Hopefully, with their other retentions and the guidance of Banjo, the Jets' special teams will be just as good as it was in 2025.