"If all goes right for the New York Jets in 2024, they could have an argument for ranking even higher on this list," NFL writer Ian Valentino stated. "Their starting units are excellent, particularly the defense that was already arguably the NFL's best before trading for Haason Reddick. There's no reason to believe the Jets' elite pass defense won't continue carrying its weight."
Last season, the Jets defense finished No. 3 in yards allowed (292.3) and No. 12 in points per game (20.8). With 7 of their 11 starters back for 2024, plus the additions of All-Pro Reddick, DT Javon Kinlaw and the return of veteran safety Chuck Clark from a torn ACL he sustained last offseason, the Jets' defense is poised for another dominant campaign.
"They have the league's top cornerback, Sauce Gardner," according to NFL Senior Writer Marcus Mosher. "Although he has only been in the NFL for two seasons, he's been a two-time All-Pro selection and the 2022 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. But Gardner isn't the only reason the Jets rank so highly on this list. Quinnen Williams might be the NFL's best defensive tackle. He is just as good against the run as he is as a pass-rusher. Williams is only 26 and has improved every season. Williams and Gardner might be the NFL's best duo.
"And don't forget about Quincy Williams, who is coming off an All-Pro season at linebacker. The Jets have three All-Pro defenders who are all in the primes of their careers. For that reason alone, they are No. 1 on our list."
As for the offense, QB Aaron Rodgers returns to the lineup after missing last season with a torn Achilles tendon. Pair the four-time MVP signal caller with the additions of All-Pro LT Tyron Smith, former Chargers standout WR Mike Williams, and rookies LT Olu Fashanu and WR Malachi Corley, and the Jets' offense expects to much improved from last season.
"The question in New York revolves around its offense's ability to stay healthy," Valentino wrote. "If available, the core of Aaron Rodgers, Tyron Smith, and Mike Williams is a massive trio of upgrades compared to what the Jets trotted out in 2023. Add in young playmakers Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Malachi Corley, and there's a runway for a huge season for a franchise that has suffered time and time again."
