Ranking the top 10 safeties in NY Jets history

6. Kerry Rhodes, S, NY Jets

Kerry Rhodes played for the Jets from 2005 to 2009 and was a versatile safety in their defensive scheme. His athleticism, range, and coverage ability made him a valuable asset in the secondary. Rhodes recorded interceptions and provided stability and leadership to the Jets' defense during his time with the team.

To say the Jets have liked safeties in the draft would be a massive understatement. Three of the first five inclusions on this list were Eric Smith, who was drafted in the 2006 draft, Eric Coleman, who was drafted in the 2004 NFL Draft, and now Kerry Rhodes, selected in the 2005 draft.

Rhodes, a personal favorite Jets player of mine, made an immediate impact in the Jets secondary, starting all 16 games his rookie season. He would go on to play in 80 games with the Jets, including 78 starts.

In those 80 games, Rhodes tallied 420 tackles, 15 interceptions, eight forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and one defensive touchdown.

Playing a mixture of strong and free safety, Rhodes proved to be extremely versatile, making plays across the entire field. In 2006 Rhodes was named a second-team All-Pro, the only time he would earn that award in his career.

Following five seasons with the Jets, Rhodes signed with Arizona in free agency, where he would finish his career in 2012. Rhodes finished his career with 23 interceptions, 490 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 19 quarterback hits, eight forced fumbles, and 11 fumble recoveries.