5 surprise NY Jets players on the roster bubble this summer

4. Vinny Curry, DE, NY Jets

Veteran defensive end Vinny Curry was reunited with current Jets general manager Joe Douglas when he signed a one-year deal with the organization in March of 2021.

The hope was that Curry would provide an invaluable veteran presence to a revamped Jets pass-rush corps. Unfortunately, tragedy struck as Curry was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder that required the complete removal of his spleen.

It seemed unlikely that Curry would ever play in an NFL game again and he was quickly ruled out for the 2021 season before he even got to play a snap. Most assumed that was the end of Curry's time with the Jets and in the NFL.

But the soon-to-be 34-year-old remained committed to returning to the gridiron, and he officially re-signed with the Jets this past April. Both sides are hoping that the second time could be the charm.

However, Curry returns to a much-improved defensive end rotation. He'll be competing for a roster spot in what is likely the deepest position group on the team, and he'll have his work cut out for him.

Carl Lawson, John Franklin-Myers, Jermaine Johnson, Jacob Martin, and Micheal Clemons all figure to have spots locked up. That leaves likely one spot for the likes of Curry, Bryce Huff, and a slew of other promising young players.

It would be a heartwarming, inspirational story if Curry were to return to the field after his career-threatening condition, but it's far from a guarantee he does so with the Jets.