5 under-the-radar NY Jets who impressed in the Panthers game

2. Bruce Hector, DT, NY Jets

The Jets signed veteran defensive tackle Bruce Hector just four days before Saturday's preseason game. The former XFL standout had barely settled into his new locker room, but that didn't stop him from excelling in his Jets debut.

Hector was one of the best players on the field on Saturday, earning an elite 90.7 PFF grade which includes a ridiculous 90.5 pass-rush grade. Take PFF grades for what they're worth, but Hector was the highest-graded player on either team in this weekend's game.

The USF product recorded a sack, two total pressures, a run stop, and a nasty forced fumble and recovery on the Panthers' first drive of the third quarter.

It speaks to the volume of the Jets' defensive line depth that a five-year NFL veteran and XFL star signed four days ago could immediately come in and contribute at a high level. Hector likely won't make the 53-man roster, but he could sneak onto the practice squad despite his late addition.

1. Brandin Echols, CB, NY Jets

Brandin Echols is the most relevant player on this list, but I still feel as though he's underappreciated by most Jets fans. Echols would likely start on some NFL rosters, and Saturday's game was further proof of that.

The former Kentucky star was outstanding against the Panthers, allowing zero total catches on two targets. His 88.4 PFF grade was among the highest of any defensive back in football this week.

Echols even recorded a run stop on his only tackle while also finishing with a near-elite 85.9 PFF coverage grade. He only played 14 snaps, but Echols was one of the best players on the field.

Echols is suspended for the first game of the season, but he will return in Week 2 as the Jets' primary backup cornerback. He's quietly put together an excellent summer.