Let’s take a look at three under-the-radar moves that worked out better than expected for the Jets in 2021:
Del'Shawn Phillips
Phillips had just two games of NFL experience when the Jets signed him last March, but familiarity with Jeff Ulbrich put the linebacker in position to earn a role in New York. Phillips did just that, leading the Jets in special teams snaps while playing in all 17 games. He and teammate Justin Hardee, a more prominent signing, tied for 12th in the league with 12 special teams tackles, and Phillips ranked sixth among 558 special teams players with a Pro Football Focus grade of 90.5.
Quincy Williams
A waiver claim following final cuts, Williams’ arrival made headlines because he’s the younger brother of Jets star Quinnen Williams. But no one expected the older sibling to start 13 times or play in a total of 16 games for New York. Williams set career-highs with 110 tackles, nine TFLs, four QB hits and two sacks. A speedy linebacker, it wouldn’t be surprising if Williams starts alongside his brother for a second straight season in 2022.
Elijah Riley
Ravaged by safety injuries all season, the Jets signed Riley off the Eagles practice squad in November. A Long Island native, Riley proved to be more than just a nice homecoming story at the bottom of New York’s roster. Instead, he started seven games, recording 45 tackles and one sack. He wasn’t perfect in covereage, but Riley showed enough to earn a role for a safety-needy Jets team next year.
Del'Shawn Phillips
Phillips had just two games of NFL experience when the Jets signed him last March, but familiarity with Jeff Ulbrich put the linebacker in position to earn a role in New York. Phillips did just that, leading the Jets in special teams snaps while playing in all 17 games. He and teammate Justin Hardee, a more prominent signing, tied for 12th in the league with 12 special teams tackles, and Phillips ranked sixth among 558 special teams players with a Pro Football Focus grade of 90.5.
Quincy Williams
Elijah Riley