Jets must pursue 'pretty gifted' linebacker as possible Demario Davis replacement

Technically speaking, the New York Jets have been linked to drafting a Big Ten, all-conference linebacker for several months.

Ohio State edge rusher/linebacker Arvell Reese remains a popular name for the Jets at No. 2, though Texas Tech standout David Bailey’s stock is skyrocketing ahead of next week’s draft.

As for middle linebacker, the Jets plugged the hole with a short-term option by signing five-time All-Pro Demario Davis this offseason. However, Davis turned 37 in January, and the Jets need added depth.

Enter Iowa’s Karson Sharar, a likely late-round pick who ESPN named a draft sleeper earlier this week. Sharar recorded 83 tackles, including 12 for a loss, and four sacks for the Hawkeyes as a first-year starter.

Hawkeyes coach Kirk Ferentz called Sharar a “pretty gifted guy” who took full advantage of his promotion to starter.

“You could just see the adjustment he made to the speed of the game as the year went on,” Ferentz said. “All he lacks is significant playing time, because he’s very fast, he can get to the ball, very explosive kid, likes playing.”

What to know about Iowa linebacker Karson Sharar

At first glance, urging the Jets to target a 23-year-old linebacker with one year of starting experience is an odd choice.

However, Sharar should absolutely appeal to a rebuilding team led by a defensively minded head coach. He ran a 4.56-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, sixth-best among linebackers.

The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Sharar earned the Hustle Award twice at Iowa, an honor given to players who blend an impressive work ethic with strong on-field performance.

And while sprinting down the field on kickoffs and punts might not stand out to fans the way that touchdowns or interceptions do, Sharar proved himself as a special teams ace at Iowa.

Sharar’s impressive 2025 season, coupled with his extensive special teams experience, only boosts his case for at least landing on a practice squad.

By no means are we suggesting that Sharar could be the Jets’ Week 1 starting middle linebacker. Davis’ two-year, $22 million contract, which includes $15 million in guarantees, should immediately end such a discussion.

Players don’t earn an honor like the Hustle Award twice, though. Such a feat speaks to someone’s character and the value they provide a team beyond traditional counting stats.

Some of the league’s best teams, as the Jets know full well from playing the Patriots, rise to that level because they find gems on Day 3 or in players who go undrafted.

Sharar won’t grab your attention the way that Reese, Bailey, or Ty Simpson will, and understandably so. Just don’t be surprised if he becomes a fan favorite wherever he lands.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow