5 highest-graded NY Jets players by PFF through 3 weeks

4. Michael Carter II, CB, NY Jets

Few probably expected a Jets cornerback to make it onto this list at the beginning of the year. But not only does Michael Carter II rank as the fourth highest-graded Jets player through three weeks, but position-mate Bryce Hall just missed out on making the top-five.

Carter's 71.1 PFF grade is good for the 21st best cornerback in the entire NFL, the fourth-best rookie cornerback, and a top-five slot cornerback.

The former Duke star has shined through the first three weeks of the season and looked the part of not only an NFL starter, but an above-average one at that.

Carter has allowed 11 catches on 15 targets, although none of those catches have gone for more than nine yards. He hasn't allowed more than 20 coverage yards in a week so far this season.

On top of that, he's been one of the most consistent and reliable tackles on the defense with just one missed tackle on 15 attempts. That's evident in his run-defense grade of 64.9 which is the best of any cornerback on the Jets roster.

He's coming off his best game yet as he surrendered just two catches for 13 yards against the Denver Broncos and registered a 57.3 passer rating when targeted.

Michael Carter II has been quite the find for the Jets. For a fifth-round rookie starting in the most inexperienced secondary in football, he's blown away any and all expectations.