NY Jets 2023 Spring Depth Chart Preview: Linebacker

After a fantastic last two offseasons, the NY Jets have very few glaring weaknesses on their roster, but perhaps if fans were to point to one specific position group, it would be this linebacker unit that played well above their weight in 2022.

With All-Pro C.J. Mosley leading the way, this unit still has plenty of potential, and if they can finally get the total package out of their young names, they will look to contribute to what's expected to be one of the five or 10 best defensive units in the NFL.

Depth chart

• C.J. Mosley
• Quincy Williams
• Jamien Sherwood
• Hamsah Nasirildeen
• Zaire Barnes
• Chazz Surratt.

What are the pros of the 2023 NY Jets linebacker room?

The Jets' linebacker room was very hit or miss throughout the season, but once again, the biggest pro for this group is their All-Pro leader and the heart and soul of the Jets defensive unit, C.J. Mosley, who once again excelled in 2022.

Beyond Mosley, this is a unit with some younger players that are full of potential. If given the chance, the likes of Nasirildeen, Sherwood, and Barnes all have the opportunity to be difference-makers if the Jets don't make another late-offseason veteran addition as we saw with Kwon Alexander in 2022.

With that being said, the ultimate X-factor for this unit will be Quincy Williams, who stepped up in a big way in 2022, making a major impact. If he can find the consistency to go along with his speed and intensity, New York could have two Williams stars on their hands.

What are the cons of the 2023 NY Jets linebacker room?

While the Jets are led by All-Pro C.J. Mosley, beyond that, the team is relatively unproven. And while a talented defensive line will make their job a little bit easier, no one could blame Jets fans for being nervous about this very young, unproven group.

Last year, the Jets picked up Kwon Alexander late in the offseason, and when one of their top three went out, there was a very mixed bag from this young group. If the Jets are relying heavily on Nasirildeen, Sherwood, and Barnes, we could see more struggles in 2023.

The Jets have one of the best leaders in the NFL in Mosley, and they could no doubt add another veteran closer to the preseason beginning because if they don't, this may be a unit that the team can't depend on for consistency.

Who will be the biggest stud in the 2023 NY Jets linebacker group?

While many will expect C.J. Mosley, the unquestioned leader of this defense, to be the biggest stud of the group, fans should keep an eye on Quincy Williams, who was an absolute game-breaker for New York in 2022.

The 26-year-old is heading into his fifth NFL season in 2023, and it's time for him to convert flashes and big plays into consistent performances. If he can do that, Williams may become one of the most impactful players on this entire squad.

In 2022, Williams had a career year across the board, with 106 total tackles, one pass defended, and three sacks, and as he grows in confidence, this group will follow, so look for the older of the Williams to take a huge step forward this year.

What are the linebacker storylines to watch in NY Jets OTAs and training camp?

The unit that the Jets are putting on the field right now is solid, but like last year, perhaps the biggest story to watch in the coming months will be looking outside the organization, as many people expect them to make another late offseason addition.

Last year it was Kwon Alexander, and this year, there are just as many solid names out there, such as Zach Cunningham, Kyle Van Noy, and Alexander himself. With New York clearing more and more cap space as the weeks go on, they seem likely to make another addition.

On the field, there are plenty of young names looking to fill the third starting spot on this roster, and with so many opportunities to prove themselves, someone is going to step up and make their mark in the coming months.

Predictions for the 2023 NY Jets linebacker group?

While it's easy to make predictions for the other star-studded units on this Jets team, the linebacker spot is a little different, with the biggest expectation being another Pro Bowl and All-Pro season from C.J. Mosley.

Beyond that, this isn't a team that's going to wow anyone with their statistical production, but if they can be in the top 15-20 in production, it will benefit the defense in a major way and assist with a unit that's expected to be one of, if not the best in the league.

Ultimately, this is a group with talent. Unfortunately, a lot of that talent is unproven at the NFL level, and if this group can finish tackles, put pressure on their man, and give the rest of the Jets' defense a chance to thrive, the fan base will be thrilled with their production.