NY Jets 2019 vs. 2022: Comparing Joe Douglas' first roster to the current team

NY Jets, Zach Wilson, Mike White
NY Jets, Zach Wilson, Mike White / Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com /
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NY Jets, Quinnen Williams / Jim McIsaac/GettyImages

The NY Jets defensive line remains solid, if not spectacular

Quinnen Williams, John Franklin-Myers, Carl Lawson vs. Leonard Williams, Quinnen Williams, Henry Anderson

The Jets have always tried to pride themselves on the defensive side of the ball, and while this current defensive line unit hasn't completely proven themselves, they have the potential to be great if everyone can stay healthy.

Beyond the three names, they also have Jermaine Johnson and Sheldon Rankins, and when you consider the depth and combination of skill and experience, this group should be way ahead of the 2019 version.

Lawson has the potential to be one of the best pass-rushers in the game, and if he can recover from his injury and get back to full health, this group under Robert Saleh could propel these Jets to several wins in 2022.

Verdict: While close, this current group edges out the 2019 version due to the potential of Lawson and 2022 first-round draft pick Jermaine Johnson.


The NY Jets linebacker corps has been steady for the last few seasons

C.J. Mosley, Quincy Williams, Marcell Harris vs. C.J. Mosley, Neville Hewitt, Avery Williamson

The Jets in their prime years (2009-2010) relied heavily on their defense, and while the likes of Darelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie stole the headlines, their solid linebacker corps led by David Harris was a big part of the success.

While C.J. Mosley won't likely be spoken of in the same breath, he's been leading this group for quite some time now, despite significant time away, and he's got a big job ahead of him in 2022 paired with the young duo of Quincy Williams and likely Marcell Harris.

The 2019 pairing alongside him was more experienced, but this young team right now has plenty of potential. If the Jets don't find success with this group in 2022, this will be one spot that Joe Douglas has to deal with in next year's offseason.

Verdict: We've yet to see significant success from the current group, and given the depth around C.J. Mosley back in 2019, we've got to give it to that unit.