5 players most integral to the NY Jets' success in 2022

4. Quinnen Williams, DT, NY Jets

Quinnen Williams has been a very good player since entering the NFL in 2019. The former third overall pick ranks fifth in defensive stops (73) and sixth in sacks (15.5) among interior defensive linemen since his rookie season.

That's including his disappointing 2019 campaign. Over the last two seasons, Williams has been one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL, and at just 24-years-old, the sky is still the limit for the former Alabama star.

The Jets are just waiting for Williams to take that next step. Right now, he's very good. Again, 13.0 sacks over the last two seasons is excellent for a defensive tackle, especially one as well-rounded as Williams.

But he's not a truly great player just yet. The Jets know that he has the potential to be. Now, it's all about living up to his potential.

The hope is that Williams can ascend into superstardom this season, especially with a much-improved supporting cast. A healthy Carl Lawson joins the likes of John Franklin-Myers, Jermaine Johnson, Bryce Huff, and numerous others in what could be the deepest pass-rushing corps in the NFL.

That should provide Williams with everything he needs to shine in 2022. And if he does, if Williams can put together an All-Pro-caliber season, the entire complexion of the Jets' defense changes.

A dominant interior presence would allow the Jets to control the line of scrimmage and dictate the flow of games. Williams has been very good, but he hasn't been dominant. He hasn't taken over games.

If he does that in 2022, this Jets defense can be special.