Leger Douzable may have spoiled Aaron Glenn’s newest plan for the Jets defense

Considering the New York Jets’ luck, their historic interception drought will likely end with a defensive tackle grabbing a deflected pass on the first drive against the Tennessee Titans in Week 1.

But with how well defensive backs Andre Cisco and Dane Belton have looked lately, don’t be surprised if either snags an errant Cam Ward pass on Sept. 13. Belton, an offseason arrival from the Giants, has earned continued praise throughout training camp, and Cisco picked off a pass in last Friday’s win over the Steelers.

Former Jets defensive end Legar Douzable thinks highly enough of both players that he suggested Aaron Glenn could run more three-safety sets this season. Cisco and Belton would play alongside veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Aaron Glenn and the New York Jets must explore using Dane Belton and Andre Cisco in three-safety packages

The wonders of modern technology have made nearly every stat imaginable easily accessible. Did you know that Derek Jeter hit .340 in nearly 1,800 plate appearances coming on or after a 2-0 count? Somehow, Baseball-Reference compiled enough data from 20 seasons to determine that info. 

There is a significant difference between an individual player’s statistics and a coaching philosophy. Both require context, though they shouldn’t be as simple as pointing out “these players had multiple interceptions in a defense that used five linebackers on 41% of its plays.” And yes, we’re confident that kind of in-depth information is out there.

We know for a fact that nothing the Jets’ secondary did last year worked, and that goes beyond the lack of interceptions. Opposing quarterbacks regularly shredded an overworked defense, and deep passing plays felt inevitable each week. What else can you really say about a team that allowed 188 points over its final five games? The Seahawks and Texans didn't even give up 300 points in 17 games.

If Belton and Cisco deserve to play, then Glenn needs to put them on the field. Admittedly, that sounds obvious; why wouldn’t the Jets make sure their best players are receiving the snaps that they deserve? But the overreliance on analytics and a “my way or the highway” mindset from coaches and executives often proves problematic in that regard. 

Whether you believe Glenn is on the hot seat likely depends on how you feel about him personally. His clear emotional investment in the franchise itself has won over players and fans alike despite last year’s 3-14 finish. We’re a long way removed from Adam Gase and Robert Saleh, the latter of whom recently earned widespread mockery for the return of his “all gas, no brake” phrase.

Belton and Cisco are both expected to play in Friday night’s preseason finale against the Giants.

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