Jets preseason star has storybook revenge opportunity in Week 1 matchup

The New York Jets have built a fairly deep defensive line room that could be tough for a fringe player to crack, but Nate Lynn is doing everything in his power to force his way onto the roster.

Lynn, who recorded two sacks in the Jets' preseason shutout against the Pittsburgh Steelers, may have a chance at making Aaron Glenn's 53-man roster after showing that he has the pass-rush skill needed to make an impact in the NFL. To make matters even sweeter for Lynn, he has the opportunity to get some revenge on a team that wronged him.

The only reason Lynn was on the open market to begin with was Robert Saleh and the Tennessee Titans choosing not to bring him back for 2026. Who do the Jets open the season with? Try those very same Titans. Lynn, should he make the roster, will have all the motivation he needs.

Jets preseason star Nate Lynn could get revenge on Titans in Week 1

Lynn, signed just eight days ago, has been the victim of some rotten luck throughout his pro career. After impressing as an undrafted free agent with the Detroit Lions in 2024, a shoulder injury ended his run in the Motor City. Tennessee took a chance on him, but Robert Saleh didn't think he was good enough to make his defensive line rotation.

The Jets seemingly have four of their roster spots saved for pass rushers. David Bailey, Joseph Ossai, Will McDonald, and Kingsley Enagbare are all locked in due to their long-term potential or immediate veteran impact. Glenn and defensive coordinator Brian Duker will need to subtract elsewhere on the roster to keep a fifth defensive end in play.

However, if Glenn is practicing what he preaches about the meritocratic atmosphere around this team, Lynn deserves a spot. If he were to get into a game in Week 1, which is not entirely implausible due to the defensive line picking a few players up off the PUP list, Lynn could scoot around a Titans offensive line that is far from dominant and trouble Cam Ward.

On top of the entire Jets organization trying to get some revenge on Saleh and the numerous former New York players and coaches who have found a home in Tennessee, Lynn will join nose tackle T'Vondre Sweat and cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. as former Titans who are looking to head back to Nashville and show that organization what a mistake they made.

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