Marcelino McCrary-Ball is the newest unexpected name taking over Jets camp

Lost in the dominance of New York Jets rookie edge rusher David Bailey’s phenomenal preseason debut was the performance of another defensive contributor.

Veteran linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball racked up four tackles, including one for a loss, in last Friday’s loss to the Buccaneers. He excelled against the run and was around the ball for much of his time on the field.

Pro Football Focus clearly came away impressed, giving him a 96.4 overall grade and a 94.3 coverage grade. Interestingly, McCrary-Ball earned the latter despite being credited with two catches allowed on three targets.

Not too bad for a former undrafted player with 19 career games under his belt.

What to know about New York Jets linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball

If McCrary-Ball’s name even slightly rings a bell, it’s likely because he served as a Week 1 captain against the Steelers last September. Lingering hamstring injuries cost him much of the 2025 season, and he finished the year with 23 tackles over five games. 

Unselected out of Indiana, McCrary-Ball spent his rookie season in 2022 on the 49ers’ practice squad. The Jets signed him to their practice squad in August 2023, and he made his NFL debut that October. 

Last season was the first time he consistently worked his way into the starting lineup, playing 32% of the Jets’ defensive snaps when healthy. But he's been a steady presence on special teams, including playing 81% of those snaps last year.

The Jets placed an exclusive rights tender on the 27-year-old Marcelino McCrary-Ball earlier this year. 

“He never takes a day off,” teammate Jamien Sherwood said last summer. “He’s full speed. He runs to the ball every day. He’s physical at the point of attack. He’s just a great teammate to have. I’m glad he’s on my team.”

They might not be flashy, but the Jets saw enough of Matthew Slater over the years to know the value of an elite special teams ace. Slater was instrumental in the Patriots’ second dynasty, winning three championships and making five All-Pro teams. 

We understand that much of your attention during Friday’s clash with the Steelers will be on Bailey, rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik, and other high-profile names. But if you still find yourself watching in the second half, keep a close eye on McCrary-Ball and what he brings to the table. There are few greater feelings than watching a player break out and remembering that you were early to the party.

Look no further than the Adonai Mitchell hype train that roared throughout the offseason. Hey, you know what they say about broken clocks…

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