Jets need to keep veteran cut candidate on their radar at position of need

It's no secret that the New York Jets had one of the worst duos of starting linebackers last year, with veteran Quincy Williams struggling in a new scheme, and Jamien Sherwood shrinking under the responsibilities of being a defensive captain.

It's why New York had no choice but to go out and add veteran linebacker Demario Davis. Replacing Williams with the 37-year-old should go a long way in improving the position, and gives the Jets a bona fide leader at the middle of their defense.

Heading into 2026, Davis and Sherwood are inked in as the two starting linebackers, but behind them, questions remain about who could step up in case of emergency.

The fact is the Jets are thin at linebacker, and general manager Darren Mougey would be wise to look for a veteran addition as an injury insurance policy.

Steelers' Patrick Queen tabbed as potential cut candidate

Bleacher Report's Alex Kay named Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen as a potential cut candidate this summer, and he could be an ideal target for the Jets.

Cutting ties with Queen would save Pittsburgh nearly $11 million against the cap, and the Steelers may want to allocate those resources elsewhere as they gear up for one last season with 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers.

"If Queen does hit free agency, he still offers plenty of upside as a 26-year-old, two-time Pro Bowler with first-round pedigree. He also brings a wealth of experience, having started 101 games since entering the league in 2020, and could still push closer to his ceiling in a new program."

Alex Kay

The former first-round draft pick may not be a starting-caliber player anymore. Last season, Queen graded out as Pro Football Focus's 78th-graded linebacker among 88 qualified players.

Maybe he can't be trusted as a starter, but as a reserve player? He could be exactly what the Jets are looking for.

As previously mentioned, Davis is getting up there in age. He's typically been an iron man, having only missed one game over the last four years, but that's unlikely to go on forever.

Instead of having to rely on 2025 fifth-round pick Kiko Mauigoa as a potential starter in case of injury, the Jets would likely much rather have an experienced veteran like Queen step in.

If the Steelers do end up cutting ties, New York should be all over his free agent market.

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