News: North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples was the Jets' first draft pick, but he wasn't their only defensive draft pick. The team also picked up Arkansas State linebacker Demario Davis, Wake Forest safety Josh Bush and South Carolina safety Antonio Allen.
Analysis: The Jets finished fifth in defense last season, but New York's 35 sacks ranked tied for 17th in the league. The Coples pick was made to improve that sack production, but he's the only offseason addition to help their pass rush. The signing of LaRon Landry, however, should help their coverage against big receiving threats. If he gets hurt, the unit could be in big trouble, but until that happens Fantasy owners should still consider the Jets DST worth a final-round pick.
News: The Jets entered Week 17 needing a win along with losses by three other teams to reach the playoffs. Instead, they finished the season with three consecutive defeats after allowing 16 unanswered points in a 19-17 loss to Miami on Sunday. New York gave up six third-down conversions during the Dolphins' 21-play, 94-yard drive early in the fourth quarter for their only touchdown. The Jets managed just once sack in the game.
Analysis: The New York defense seemed to earn a reprieve when Miami RB Reggie Bush was ruled out for the game because of a knee injury. The Jets yielded just 82 rushing yards, however, they could not limited their own mistakes and forced just two turnovers against the Dolphins. The lone sack was the first time in New York's past six outings it did not finish with multiple sacks. Fantasy owners should expect the Jets' defense to improve next season. The unit will remain a top DST option in 2012 Fantasy drafts.
News: With the Jets facing a must-win situation during Week 17, New York faces its bitter rival in the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The Jets are battling for a playoff berth and will hope for a similar defensive showing they enjoyed in their previous meeting with Miami this season. New York forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by Dolphins QB Matt Moore, and also recorded four sacks during a 24-6 victory in Week 6.
Analysis: The Jets' chances to stay in the playoff hunt took a positive turn Friday when Miami RB Reggie Bush was ruled out for the game with a knee injury. The energetic back had reeled off four consecutive 100-yard outings on the ground and amassed 71 rushing yards in the first game. He will be replaced in the lineup by rookie Daniel Thomas. New York has allowed two running backs in its past four games to reach 100 yards as the defense hasn't been as stout like it has in previous seasons. Fantasy owners should consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 17.
News: With the Jets facing a must-win situation during Week 17, New York faces its bitter rival in the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The Jets are battling for a playoff berth and will hope for a similar defensive showing they enjoyed in their previous meeting with Miami this season. New York forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by Dolphins QB Matt Moore, and also recorded four sacks during a 24-6 victory in Week 6.
Analysis: If the Jets are to stay in the playoff hunt, they will need to accomplish a feat few teams have been able to accomplish recently: slow Miami RB Reggie Bush. The energetic back has reeled off four consecutive 100-yard outings on the ground and amassed 71 rushing yards in the first game. New York has allowed two running backs in its past four games to reach 100 yards as the defense hasn't been as stout like it has in previous seasons. Still, Fantasy owners should consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 17.
News: The Jets defense allowed a 99-yard touchdown to Victor Cruz and two second-half rushing touchdowns to Ahmad Bradshaw, which proved to be too much for the Jets to overcome in a 29-14 loss Week 16. The Giants rolled up 332 yards, including 115 on the ground. The Jets sacked QB Eli Manning twice and forced just one turnover.
Analysis: The Jets defense dominated the Giants in the first quarter and was pretty much in control until Cruz broke three tackles on his way to a career-best score. The game was still close in the second half until New York finished the game with 12 points in the fourth quarter. It was a disappointing outcome, but the Jets can't sulk too much. Their playoff hopes are still alive heading into Week 17 against the Dolphins. New York did knock off Miami, 24-6, in Week 6, so consider the Jets DST a viable Fantasy start.
News: The Jets again have one of the better defenses in the NFL, but it will be tested Week 16 against the Giants, who are in need of a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Giants are averaging 385.1 yards and 23.9 points per game. New York has scored at least 20 points in all but three games this season.
Analysis: The Jets have one of the best cornerback tandems in the NFL in Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie. However, the Giants have three talented receivers in Hakeem Nicks, Victor Cruz and Mario Manningham, so you do the math. The chances will be there for the Giants to make plays. Also, the Eagles exposed the Jets secondary in Week 15 as New York played its first game without safety Jim Leonhard. The Giants are coming off a disappointing loss as well, so it's a perfect storm for the Jets. Consider the Jets a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: All week leading up to their matchup against Philadelphia, the Jets stressed containing mobile QB Michael Vick. However, New York forgot about RB LeSean McCoy as he had three rushing touchdowns in a 45-19 loss to the Eagles in Week 15. Philadelphia racked up a staggering 420 total yards, including 160 yards in the ground. It was the second time the Jets have surrendered at least 400 yards this season. "That was about as bad as it can get," New York coach Rex Ryan said. "It was just a terrible performance. They scored on six or seven possessions on us at one point, and that’s just ridiculous."
Analysis: Vick still managed 274 passing yards and a touchdown, and also ran for a score in his second game back after missing three with broken ribs. The Jets consistently let him roam out of the pocket and make plays as he finished second on the Eagles with 32 rushing yards on five attempts. New York also finished with just three sacks as it could not take advantage of four turnovers by Philadelphia. Fantasy owners should consider the Jets a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 16 against the Giants as they could rebound.
News: Anytime defenses face the Eagles, as the Jets do in Week 15, they have to focus on Eagles QB Michael Vick – assuming he is healthy. Vick is still recovering from broken ribs however he is probable for the matchup, so the Jets are doing everything they can to prepare for him – including putting a cornerback under center in practice. QB Kevin O'Connell and Mark Brunell are taking turns with the passing, but coach Rex Ryan said that one of those simulating his running moves is 5'8", 160lb CB Isaiah Trufant .
Analysis: It’s been tough to get a bead on the Eagles offense this year, as they feature an impressive array of weapons and rack up more yards from scrimmage than all but three teams in the league. Despite this, they rank just 15th in the NFL in points scored, largely because of how turnover prone they have been. Vick and his backups have combined to lead the league in interceptions thrown. However, you have to respect the firepower the Eagles possess and consider the Jets a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 15. Philadelphia is simply too talented to take a chance on the Jets shutting them down in the Fantasy playoffs. If you can, look for better options.
News: The Jets utilized an impressive swarming defense to register a season-high five sacks on Kansas City QB Tyler Palko during a 37-10 victory over the Chiefs in Week 14. It was the fourth time this season the Jets have amassed at least four sacks as they limited visiting Kansas City to just 13 total first downs. "They are a lot like the Steelers," Palko said of New York's defense. "They have guys all over the place. It seems like they play with 12 or 13 guys sometimes because they have guys all over the place."
Analysis: The Jets also recorded a safety after they stopped Chiefs RB Jackie Battle in the end zone during the fourth quarter. But the New York defense was strong beforehand and held Kansas City to just four total yards in the first two quarters of the game. "I guess it would be our best game so far this year," coach Rex Ryan said. However, the defense lost starting DB Jim Leonhard to a knee injury in the first half and early reports indicate he could be out for the rest of the year. Consider the Jets a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 15 at Philadelphia.
News: After creating just one turnover in their previous three games leading up to Week 13 against Washington, the Jets effectively returned to form and forced three takeaways in a win over the Redskins last Sunday. It was the sixth time this season New York recorded three turnovers in a game, but just the second occasion since Week 6. The Jets will attempt to continue their strong play in Week 14 against Kansas City, which has turned the ball over a staggering 24 times -- tied with San Diego for the most in the AFC.
Analysis: New York will have a prime opportunity to add to its sterling interception total (11) as the Chiefs are likely to start second-year QB Tyler Palko, who has been picked off six times in five games this season. The Jets have also managed five sacks over their past two outings combined and will bring added pressure against the inexperienced Palko. Fantasy owners should consider New York a high-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 14.
News: The Jets DST only forced Washington QB Rex Grossman into throwing one interception in the Week 13 game from D.C. While that is fewer than expected, the Jets DST did force three total turnovers as they picked up two fumbles in the 34-19 victory. The Jets DST held Washington to 304 yards of offense in the come-from-behind win. The Jets DST forced a late Grossman pick and fumble that helped secure the victory. The Jets DST picked up two sacks of Grossman in the performance.
Analysis: The Jets DST has actually been an underwhelming option lately with fewer than 10 Fantasy points recorded in three of the last six games. The Jets DST was better on Sunday against Washington, as we knew they would be. Heading into Week 14 against Kansas City, the Chiefs are in a bad way with their quarterback situation. The Jets DST can be starting in most Fantasy formats Week 14.
News: The Jets DST could be in for a bounce-back performance Week 13 at Washington. The Jets DST needs one badly after registering just one forced turnover and four sacks in the last three games played combined. The DST is still limiting opponents' yards and points, but the Jets aren't coming up with big plays.
Analysis: The Jets DST plays the Redskins Week 13. Anytime a DST is facing Rex Grossman, you have to expect some turnovers. We feel the Jets DST is going to be all over the Washington receivers and a DTD could even be in order. Fantasy owners should roll with the Jets DST as a No. 1 Fantasy unit for Week 13.
News: The Jets have been one of the best teams in the NFL at home this season and entered their Week 12 matchup against Buffalo with a 4-1 record. New York improved that mark with an effective pass rush that resulted in four sacks during a 28-24 victory over the Bills on Sunday. Former Buffalo DL Aaron Maybin registered two of the team's sacks as the Jets finished with multiple sacks for the first time since Week 6 against Miami.
Analysis: With Bills star RB Fred Jackson sidelined with an injury, New York held the Bills to just 86 rushing yards -- the fourth consecutive opponent it has kept under 90 yards on the ground. However, the Jets had a miscue on special teams as DB Antonio Cromartie muffed a punt return in the third quarter that Buffalo recovered and turned into a touchdown. Still, Fantasy owners should consider New York a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 13 at Washington.
News: The Jets are seeking their fifth consecutive victory over Buffalo during the teams' matchup in Week 12. A win could also save New York's floundering playoff hopes. The Jets defense has hardly resembled the unit it was earlier this season and has recorded just one sack over the past three games. “I think everyone kind of feels like it’s now or never,” New York DB Jim Leonhard said. “We have to play well, and we have to play well now.”
Analysis: Fortunately for New York -- and Fantasy owners -- the sputtering Bills head to town Sunday in a favorable matchup for the Jets. New York forced three turnovers during its previous meeting this season despite not recording a sack. Buffalo will be without star RB Fred Jackson for Sunday and QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has been picked off multiple times in three straight games. Consider the Jets a high-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 12.
News: New York had one objective in Week 11 in Denver -- contain Tim Tebow. They did so for most of the game, but allowed Tebow to bring the Broncos 95 yards late in the fourth quarter and score the go-ahead touchdown on a 20-yard scamper. New York held Tebow to 104 passing yards, but allowed 68 yards on the ground to him. Bart Scott recovered a fumble in the first quarter, but that would be the only turnover they could force. The Jets could also manage just one sack on Tebow. New York would lose to Denver, 17-13.
Analysis: The Jets allowed 229 total yards of offense in Week 11, but 95 came on the final drive for the Broncos. The Jets have recorded just one sack in the last three games combined, so Rex Ryan will have to light a fire under his guys heading into Week 12 against Buffalo. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on this team moving forward, but they are too good not to produce. Continue to view the Jets DST as a viable option for Week 12.
News: Coming off a disappointing loss to New England that put a dent in their chances of winning the AFC East, the Jets will look to bounce back in Week 11 on Thursday night against inexperienced Denver QB Tim Tebow and the Broncos. New York’s defense might not get the opportunity to correct any mistakes it made against the Patriots' spread offense as the Jets are unlikely to see anything similar compared to what it will get from Tebow. Denver rushed 55 times against Kansas City in Week 10, while Tebow attempted only eight passes for the game.
Analysis: Although the expectation is that the Broncos will again lean heavily on the run, giving most of the defensive responsibility to New York's front seven, DB Darrelle Revis said the secondary has to be extremely cautious and "not to fall asleep back there." The Jets were held without a sack for the second game in a row against he Patriots and could halt that streak with a menacing blitz on Tebow. Fantasy owners should expect a rebound from the Jets in Week 11 and consider New York a solid No. 1 Fantasy DST for Thursday night.
News: Despite utilizing multiple defensive backs, sometimes even seven at once, the Jets could not rattle New England QB Tom Brady during their 37-16 loss to the Patriots in Week 10. New York allowed the Patriots to rack up 389 total yards, including 329 passing yards by Brady, without recording a sack on the signal-caller. It was the second straight game New York did not register a sack. "It looks doubtful right now," Jets coach Rex Ryan said of his team's chances of winning the division. "Maybe I should guarantee we're out of it. The last time I did we made it."
Analysis: The Jets also failed to create a single turnover as the defense collected just two Fantasy points in standard CBSSports.com formats, its second-lowest output of the season. The Patriots' 37 points were the most the Jets have permitted to an opponent this season as they entered Sunday's game surrendering an average of 20.3 points per game. Fantasy owners should expect a rebound in Week 11 against lowly Denver on Thursday night. Consider New York a No. 1 Fantasy DST for the matchup.
News: New York hosts New England this weekend and if they want to prevail, look for the defense to clamp down on QB Tom Brady. So far this season, Brady has been sacked 16 times. The Patriots boast one of the most explosive offenses still, as they average 437.2 total yards and 27.8 points per game. That comes out to 6.50 Fantasy points per outing that opposing team's DSTs are averaging against New England.
Analysis: Even though the Jets have a tough matchup this weekend, the Patriots have been struggling lately. They did score 30 points in the first meeting this season, but New York seems to be clicking right now. Fantasy owners should view the Jets DST as a low-end No. 1 option for Week 10.
News: The Jets returned to basics in Week 9 and utilized a punishing defense to capture a 27-11 victory over Buffalo which elevated New York back into contention in the AFC East. The Jets forced three turnovers, including Jim Leonhard’s recovery of Fred Jackson’s fumble that set up their first touchdown of the game as New York held Buffalo to just a field goal through three quarters. The Bills also managed 73 net yards in the first half.
Analysis: Buffalo appeared overwhelmed by the Jets' defense and recorded as many turnovers as first downs through its first eight possessions (three). The Bills entered Sunday's game averaging 30.1 points, and had scored 20 or more points in each game but New York's suffocating defense didn't allow Buffalo's lone touchdown until less than four minutes left in the fourth quarter. Fantasy owners should expect an improved defense against New England in Week 10 after the Jets permitted 30 points in their first meeting. Consider New York a No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: After struggling with tackling after their bye week last year, Jets DB Darrelle Revis said Wednesday that the secondary has been doing tackling drills on their own after practice for the past few weeks. "The first half of the season we were missing tackles," he said. He also noted that the production of the defensive backs is being studied by the coaching staff and players know they're under supervision entering Week 9 at Buffalo.
Analysis: New York knows it has to be vigilant against Bills RB Fred Jackson, who is second in the NFL with an average of 103 rushing yards per game. "He's run the ball on almost everybody," Jets coach Rex Ryan said. "They have 20 more rushing attempts than we do as a team." New York has shown an improved run defense recently and held each of its past two opponents to less than 120 yards on the ground. The Jets have also registered nine sacks over their last three games. Consider New York a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 9.
News: After allowing 21 points in the first half alone, the Jets defense held visiting San Diego scoreless after halftime and rallied to a 27-21 victory in Week 7 on Sunday. New York picked off Chargers QB Philip Rivers two times in the fourth quarter, including one by DB Darrell Revis, who returned the ball 64 yards to the San Diego 19-yard line. The score set up a touchdown reception by WR Plaxico Burress -- his third of the game -- to give the Jets their first lead of the game. "It was a big play," said Revis, who has three interceptions in his past two games.
Analysis: New York is certainly making a habit of tightening up in the second half. After a sluggish first half in which the Jets allowed the Chargers to convert five consecutive third-down opportunities, including two for touchdowns, New York held San Diego to under 300 total yards for the game (268). The Jets recorded only one sack, but limited the Chargers to only 96 rushing yards. Fantasy owners should consider stashing the Jets DST for its upcoming bye and consider them a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 9 against Buffalo.
News: After one of its finest defensive performances of the season in its previous game, the Jets are hoping to carry that momentum into Week 7 against San Diego. New York permitted only two field goals and forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by DB Darrelle Revis, during a 24-6 victory over Miami in Week 6. It was the second opponent the Jets held to less than 10 points this season as they halted a three-game losing streak. However, the Chargers pose a tough challenge as they rank among the NFL's top-10 teams in passing and rushing.
Analysis: Buoyed by a strong tandem of Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert in the backfield, San Diego has posted an average of 122.8 rushing yards per game, ninth-best in the league. Once a strong suit, New York has been weak against the run this year and is yielding an average of 132 yards a game. Only four other NFL teams have allowed more yards on the ground. Still, the Jets boast two of the best cornerbacks in the league (Revis and Antonio Cromartie) and will look to add to their total of nine interceptions. Consider New York a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 7.
News: The Jets DST starts and ends with Revis island. Darrelle Revis returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown on Monday night in Week 6 against the Dolphins and it was goodnight Miami. Revis picked off a Matt Moore pass and took it to the house in the first quarter and the Jets never looked back in a 24-6 victory. The Jets DST gave up 308 yards to Moore and Miami, but limited the Dolphins to just two field goals. The Jets forced three turnovers as Revis picked off two passes in the game. New York finished with four sacks in the big performance.
Analysis: When Revis has two picks and takes one to the house for a 100-yard touchdown, the Jets DST is having a very good game. The team exploited a favorable matchup in Week 6 as the Jets DST came up huge in the victory. The Jets DST has had a few big efforts thus far this season and continues to be a solid DST unit week in and week out. Continue starting the Jets DST in most Fantasy formats for Week 7 against San Diego.
News: The Jets have a favorable matchup in Week 6 against the Dolphins. Miami ranks 15th in the league in both rushing and passing, while New York sports the fifth-best pass defense and rank 26th against the run. When the division foes met a year ago, the Jets held the Dolphins to 33 total points in two games.
Analysis: The Jets have picked off seven passes so far this season and also have 13 sacks with four defensive touchdowns. The Dolphins will go with QB Matt Moore on Sunday, which probable won't help out their already stagnant offense. New York should be able to shut down Miami in Week 6 so consider their DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Jets DST surrendered 30 points on 446 yards of total offense in Week 5 against the Patriots. The unit once again struggled to stop the run, allowing 152 yards on the ground and a pair of rushing touchdowns. New England also racked up 294 passing in the 30-21 contest and converted seven of their 14 third-down attempts. The Jets DST was able to force one turnover and four sacks, but failed to get in the end zone in the contest.
Analysis: The Jets continue to struggle to defend the run, as New England ran all over the unit on Sunday, especially in the fourth quarter. However, New York's defense was able to keep their team in the game, despite the large chunks of yards they allowed. The unit will now face the winless Dolphins heading into Week 6, who have turned the ball over plenty this season. Consider the Jets DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option against Miami next week.
News: With New England boasting a stronger running game this season than in previous years, the Jets have been mindful of that aspect in preparation for the teams' clash in Week 5. "The usual way we've played them is we've gone with smaller people and dared them to run and held up well enough in the run game to get them to throw it," New York defensive coordinator Mike Pettine said. "That's probably a taller task this week." The Patriots are averaging 122.8 rushing yards per game, while the Jets are permitting 130.5 yards to opponents this year.
Analysis: Aside from a stellar performance in Week 2 against lowly Jacksonville, New York's defense has been underwhelming this season. The Jets have allowed 34 points in each of their past two games -- both losses -- and continue to have issues stopping the run. New York has also surrendered four rushing touchdowns in those two outings. New England has limited its mistakes this year and is permitting an average of 5.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing defenses this year. Consider the Jets a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 5.
News: The Jets did a solid job on defense and special teams in Week 4 against the Ravens. New York held Baltimore to 267 yards of total offense and added two scores of their own. RB Joe McKnight returned a kickoff 107 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter before LB David Harris took an interception 35 yards for another score. The Jets also had two sacks in the 34-17 loss.
Analysis: The Jets DST did a solid job on Sunday night and now has two defensive touchdowns on the year. While their offense wasn't able to hold up their end of the bargain, their defense is shaping up to be another solid option in Fantasy. Their secondary will be put to the test in Week 5 against the Patriots so consider the Jets DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option against the division foe.
News: After getting gashed for 234 yards and four touchdowns on the ground a week ago, the Jets could be in for more of the same in Week 4 against the Ravens. Baltimore enters Sunday ranked eighth in the league in rushing, putting up over 127 yards per contest, and sport the 13th-best passing game. New York ranks sixth in the NFL against the pass, but 31st in rush defense, giving up over 136 yards per game. The Jets DST is the third-best in the league, having collected seven sacks with three interceptions and a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: The Jets have done a solid job against the pass this season but have been seriously exposed in the running game thus far. The Ravens' offense runs through RB Ray Rice, and he could be in for a solid performance on Sunday unless New York figures something out. Fantasy owners know that their DST can create turnovers and score on any play but the yardage they give up is worrisome. Heading into Week 4, consider the Jets DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: After permitting a total of 176 rushing yards in their first two games of the season, the Jets nearly allowed that amount during their Week 3 matchup against Oakland -- to one player. Raiders RB Darren McFadden rumbled for 171 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries as he easily bullied the New York defense in a 34-24 victory. "They played a great game today, both sides of the ball," Jets coach Rex Ryan said. "I thought they played really well. Obviously, (Darren) McFadden had a huge game. They made plays, we didn’t. It starts with me."
Analysis: New York surrendered a total of 234 rushing yards during Sunday's game -- the highest amount allowed in any game under Ryan, a span of 41 games. The Raiders also finished with 383 total yards as the Jets struggled mightily with McFadden after holding Jacksonville out of the end zone in their Week 2 rout last Sunday. New York's special teams also faltered as Antonio Cromartie, who had two interceptions last Sunday, lost a fumble on a kick return. Fantasy owners anticipate a rebound for the Jets in Week 4 at Baltimore.
News: After effectively containing Jacksonville's Maurice Jones-Drew in Week 2, the Jets face another star running back during Week 3: Oakland RB Darren McFadden. Jones-Drew mustered 88 yards on 18 carries in a 32-3 loss last Sunday, but McFadden is averaging 5.3 yards per attempt this season. The New York defense has allowed only one 100-yard rusher -- Chicago's Matt Forte -- in the past 25 games. "I've said it before and I'll say it again; Darren McFadden is one of the most exciting players in this league, bar none," Raiders coach Hugh Jackson said.
Analysis: McFadden has been utilized in Oakland's passing game, but that is an area where the Jets shine. New York picked off four passes by Jaguars QB Josh McCown last week, including two by Antonio Cromartie. "We've just got to focus on Oakland, and that's it," Cromartie said. "We have to make sure we come in and prepare for what we need to throughout the entire week and get ready for a long trip." The Jets have been one of the league's best defenses, averaging 11 Fantasy points per game and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 3.
News: Jets first-round pick Muhammad Wilkerson had his first NFL sack for a safety early in the game, helping set the tone for a long day for Jacksonville QB Luke McCown. New York's defense forced four interceptions by McCown, including two by Antonio Cromartie, during a dominating 32-3 victory in Week 2 on Sunday. The Jets swarmed the Jaguars all game and held the visitors to just 203 total yards. They also did not allow Jacksonville to cross the 20-yard line and surrendered only a 55-yard field goal by Josh Scobee in the first quarter.
Analysis: The Jets felt challenged after coach Rex Ryan opted to not give anyone on the defense a game ball following the season-opening victory over Dallas. "As a defense, as a whole, we want to cause havoc on our opponent as much as possible," Cromartie said. "That's what our defense is built on." Cromartie, who also tallied 85 yards on two kick returns, nearly returned one of his interceptions for a touchdown before being downed at the 1-yard line. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the Jets as a top DST for Week 3 at Oakland.
News: Jets DB Darrelle Revis has made a career of shutting down wide receivers on the field, and shutting them up off it. The All-Pro cornerback has done it to the best of them: Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Chad Ochocinco, Calvin Johnson. So, when Revis was told that Jacksonville's Jason Hill recently suggested that he and the rest of the Jets might be "overhyped" because of the large media market they play in, he was confused. "I don't even know who that dude is," a puzzled Revis said Friday. "What's his name again? I don't know who he is. Whatever he said is what he said. That's his opinion of us and we'll find out on Sunday." The Jets battle the Jaguars in Week 2 on Sunday.
Analysis: Hill was a third-round pick of San Francisco in 2007, the same year Revis was selected by New York 14th overall. "I think sometimes they get overhyped," Hill told the Florida Times-Union of Revis and the Jets' secondary. "I talked to Drew (Coleman), Drew played there. He says it's just the aura of New York. They got a big media." Revis and the Jets defense held firm during their Week 1 victory over Dallas when Revis picked off QB Tony Romo to seal the victory. New York also blocked a punt for a touchdown and remains a strong option against the lowly Jaguars' passing game. Consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 2.
News: The Jets defense had a hard time slowing down the Cowboys in Week 1 but their special teams made a big difference in the game. Down by seven late in the fourth quarter, Joe McKnight blocked a punt deep in Dallas' territory, which was returned 18 yards for a touchdown by Isaiah Trufant. New York also had four sacks and an interception in the 27-24 win.
Analysis: The Jets defense gave up over 300 yards through the air on Sunday but came up big with some turnovers and the score on special teams. New York is wildly considered to have one of the better defenses in the league, and should be able to limit less-potent offenses as the season goes on. A prime example of that could be in Week 2 when they face off against the Jaguars so continue to view the Jets DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Jets enter Week 1 with a favorable matchup against the Cowboys. Dallas averaged over 252 yards through the air and 111 yards on the ground a season ago but New York held opponents to just 200 yards passing and 91 yards rushing. Antonio Cromartie and Darrelle Revis will be matched up against Miles Austin and Dez Bryant on Sunday night.
Analysis: The Jets were one of the top DSTs in Fantasy a year ago and with pretty much their entire defense returning in 2011, they should be a strong option again. The have to front seven to put serious pressure on opposing quarterbacks and their secondary can match up with pretty much anyone in the league. While losing Brad Smith on special teams hurts, New York should be able to limit Dallas' offense in Week 1. Consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Jets were aiming to put their defense over the top once the lockout ended by trying to lure CB Nnamdi Asomugha to the team in order to tandem with Darrelle Revis. But the prize of the 2011 free-agent class ended up in Philadelphia, so the team re-signed Antonio Cromartie on Monday. While he is not the cover-man Asomugha has become, he still is among the best in the business. Cromartie and Revis still form arguably the NFL's best CB tandem, and the New York secondary should be able to set the tempo for the attacking Jets defense once again in 2011.
Analysis: The Jets generate their pressure while relying on top-notch cornerback play on the outside, and the team will once again be able to do that with Revis and Cromartie at corner. They are still looking to add a pass-rusher to solidify the entire unit, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how free agency plays out. Even Still, the Jets DST remains a No. 1 option in most leagues despite a tough schedule and the loss of return specialist Brad Smith.
News: The Jets improved their defensive line with their first two picks in April's draft, selecting Temple's Muhammad Wilkerson in Round 1 and Hampton's Kenrick Ellis with a third-round choice. Both of them add youth and bulk to a veteran defensive line that is expected to play without Shaun Ellis and Trevor Pryce this season. The Jets also drafted speedster Jeremy Kerley from TCU in Round 5, and he could replace Brad Smith on kickoffs.
Analysis: These are sound picks by the Jets, who should once again boast one of the best DSTs in Fantasy play in 2011. They have a challenging schedule as they'll face lots of potent offenses in the NFC East and AFC West, but they should also have their fair share of dominating performances. The Jets DST are good enough to be drafted late and used in Week 1 vs. the Cowboys.
News: After holding teams to just 90.9 rushing yards per game -- third-fewest in the NFL -- during the regular season, the Jets defense has struggled against opposing running games in the playoffs. New York yielded another huge game on the ground, this time in the AFC Championship against Pittsburgh and lost 24-19 to finish one game short of the Super Bowl for the second year in a row. The Steelers pounded the Jets for 166 rushing yards, the second consecutive playoff opponent to reach over 100 yards against the normally dominant rush defense. New York allowed two early rushing touchdowns and faced a 24-3 deficit at halftime. It was just the fourth time this season the Jets have allowed multiple rushing touchdowns in a game this season. "We played a good half. We never played a good game, and that was the difference," New York coach Rex Ryan said.
Analysis: The Jets defense just can't seem to stop Rashard Mendenhall. The bruising Pittsburgh running back amassed 121 rushing yards -- the second time this season he has topped 100 yards against New York. He is also one of only two running backs (Matt Forte) to reach the century mark against the Jets. It was a surprisingly tough postseason for the tough New York defense, which surrendered an average of 124.0 rushing yards in its three-game playoff run. The Jets also allowed their most points in the 2010 postseason and second-most in two playoff runs under Ryan. New York did, however, force Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger into throwing two interceptions -- his first multiple-pick outing of the season. Entering 2011, the Jets should again be viewed as a top Fantasy DST.
News: The Jets defense allowed 21 points on 372 yards of total offense in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game against the Patriots. The unit, which was gashed for 45 points on 405 yards of total offense the last time they played at New England, got constant pressure on Tom Brady all game long and racked up a franchise post-season record five sacks. New York's defense also forced a Brady interception, which hadn't happened since Week 16 against the Ravens. The Jets defense did not surrender a touchdown until the third quarter and held New England to just 36 percent on third-down attempts.
Analysis: New York boasted one of the best defenses most of the season and performed on Saturday. Many expected they would come out strong after being embarrassed in their last visit to Foxborough and now the unit the has shut down the Patriots and Colts in consecutive weeks on the road. Fantasy owners may want to ride the hot hand of the Jets DST in all Fantasy playoff formats heading into next week's AFC Championship game in Pittsburgh.
News: New York Jets backup cornerback Drew Coleman, the team's nickel back and a key special teams player, injured a knee late in practice Thursday and his status for the playoff game at New England is uncertain. Coach Rex Ryan says Thursday that Coleman was hurt at the end of the team's last drill of practice. Neither Ryan nor defensive coordinator Mike Pettine were sure of the extent of the injury or if it would prevent Coleman from playing against the Patriots on Sunday. If Coleman can't play, rookie Kyle Wilson would likely be the main replacement at nickel back, although Pettine said it could be a committee of players in the role.
Analysis: The Jets are already thin at safety because of injuries, so losing another defensive back as they are about to face one of the best QBs in the NFL -- Tom Brady -- is not ideal. However, if the Jets run the ball like they did in the Wild Card round against Indianapolis and keep Brady off the field, then not having Coleman might not sting as much. Still, there is risk to starting the Jets DST in Fantasy playoff formats since the last time New York visited New England they got trounced 45-3.
News: New York DB Antonio Cromartie returned a kickoff 47 yards after Indianapolis K Adam Vinatieri connected from 50 yards, giving the Colts the lead. That return led to Mark Sanchez's five-play drive to get the Jets into position for the game-winning field goal in Saturday's Wild Card game. The Jets defense would hold Colts QB Peyton Manning in check most of the game, holding him to 225 passing yards and just one touchdown. Manning did hit Pierre Garcon for a 57-yard bomb in the first half and would move his team into field goal range, in what seemed to be the game-winning kick. "I'll tell you what, it feels awesome because this is the playoffs and we're moving on," Jets coach Rex Ryan said. "You know, he [Manning] is the best, and he almost did it to us again." Manning's go-to WR Reggie Wayne had just one catch for one yard in the game, as he was shadowed by DB Darrelle Revis. The Jets sacked Manning just once on the day and held the Colts to 93 rushing yards.
Analysis: New York boasted one of the best defenses most of the season and performed on Saturday. Next week they face the Patriots, a team that they held to 14 points back in Week 2, but got run over by in Week 13 - allowing 45 points to New England. New York should be viewed as a decent start in playoff leagues, but there are better options out there. Heading into 2011, Fantasy owners should view the Jets DST as a No. 1 option on Draft Day.
News: The Jets DST only allowed 162 yards of offense to the Bills in the Week 17 38-7 easy win. The Jets DST forced six Buffalo turnovers and knocked starter Brian Brohm from the game due to poor play after three interceptions. The Jets then intercepted Levi Brown, his successor, and added two fumble recoveries by Dwight Lowery and Jamaal Westerman. Marquice Cole had two of the interceptions and returned one of them 35 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter to make it 10-0 Jets. Lowery had another interception and Calvin Pace the other. The Jets added three sacks of Bills quarterbacks in the easy win.
Analysis: The Jets finished the season with four consecutive double-digit Fantasy point scoring efforts and put a cap on a nice year among Fantasy DST units. The team heads to the playoffs and the Jets DST will continue to be among the top options heading into next season.
News: Jets starting cornerbacks Darrelle Revis (right hamstring) and Antonio Cromartie (groin) are questionable for the team's Week 17 vs. Buffalo, and head coach Rex Ryan says it's a possibility both might not play.
Analysis: The Jets are in fact expected to rest several starters, making their defense susceptible to scoring by the Bills, even though Buffalo might be without starting QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. There are better options for Fantasy owners in Week 17 than the Jets DST because their second-string defense might play for much of the game.
News: The Jets still do have reason to play hard in Week 17 against Buffalo, as they could move up to the No. 5 spot in the AFC playoff picture. The Jets DST should play well against the hapless Bills and have been a No. 1 Fantasy unit for much of the season.
Analysis: The Jets may choose to rest some regulars but we still figure they'll be good enough to have a solid performance against Buffalo. The Jets DST pulled 15 points in Week 4 in Buffalo and has scored in double figures in three straight games with 10 sacks over that span. Consider the Jets DST a No. 1 unit for Week 17.
News: Thanks to a Dwight Lowery interception-return for a touchdown, the Jets DST was pretty good in Week 16. Lowery's pick-six was the highlight as the Jets allowed 38 points and 322 yards to Jay Cutler and the Bears. The Jets did sack Cutler twice.
Analysis: The good news: The Jets DST plays vs. the Bills in Week 17. The bad news: the Jets might rest their starters. That could mean lots of backup players going up against the Bills' first-string offense. We don't love the Jets DST because of this, though there is certainly room for their Jets to pick up some good stats.
News: The Jets DST did a decent job against the Steelers in Week 15, holding them to 17 points and giving up 378 total yards while returning a kickoff for a touchdown. The unit is in for another tough matchup in Week 16 when they play at Chicago. The Bears are averaging 291.5 total yards of offense this season and have averaged 25.5 points over their last four games. Furthermore, opposing DSTs have averaged 10.1 Fantasy points against the Bears over their last seven games.
Analysis: The Bears have allowed a ton of sacks this season but they've been improving in that category lately thanks to good protection schemes and Jay Cutler using his feet to evade pressure. The Jets' special teams play gives them some value, but with the Bears offense clicking lately, there's some concern that the Jets defense could struggle. Consider other options before marrying your lineup to this DST, which has given up 102 points over their last four games on the road (45 to the Patriots).
News: The Jets defense almost intercepted Ben Roethlisberger early in second quarter on Sunday, but Brodney Pool wouldn't be able to get both hands around the ball as it dropped to the ground. New York would allow a 96-yard scoring drive in the second quarter, the longest they've allowed all season to the Steelers. Pittsburgh's 17 points were the most allowed to any opponent in the last five games. With less than three minutes in the game LB Jason Taylor got a safety by tackling Mewelde Moore, putting New York up by five. It was the Jets second safety in the last four games. New York would stop Pittsburgh on the final drive of the game that saw them march down the field and have a chance to win the game. The Steelers couldn't get the ball in the end zone and lose the game, 22-17. They would sack Roethlisberger three times in the contest as well. WR Brad Smith returned the opening kickfoff 97 yards for a touchdown opening up the scoring quick.
Analysis: New York's defense stepped up big time on Sunday. They got pushed around at times, but coach Rex Ryan had faith in them to make some stops down the stretch. The safety was big because it forced Pittsburgh to go for a touchdown instead of being able to tie the game with a field goal. The Jets now have 35 sacks on the year. While they didn't force a turnover in Week 15, the Jets will have a chance to make some noise in Week 16. New York faces Chicago, a team that has allowed 47 sacks this year. With the potential for unfavorable weather conditions, the Jets DST should be viewed as a viable option.
News: New York has given up 55 points and 583 total yards of offense over the last two weeks. Granted most of that came against the Patriots back in Week 13. Now the Jets have to focus on the Steelers. Pittsburgh averages 332.4 total yards of offense per game this year and 22.3 points per outing. It's not going to be an easy game as the Jets have never beaten the Steelers in Pittsburgh. Opposing team's DSTs have been averaging 7.62 Fantasy points per outing. New York has 32 sacks and seven interceptions on the season.
Analysis: New York boasts one of the best rush defenses in the NFL; second only to Pittsburgh. It should be a game of field position and could come down to which defense breaks first. Some veteran leaders -- like Jason Taylor -- will need to step up on Sunday. Taylor has two sacks in two career games against Pittsburgh. With a banged up secondary the Jets could be in for a long afternoon. New York is still a viable DST option for Week 15, but there are better options out there, especially with Fantasy playoff implications on the line.
News: New York held Miami QB Chad Henne to 55 passing yards and allowed just 101 rushing yards on the day in Week 14. That was not good enough to be on the winning side as the Jets fell to the Dolphins, 10-6. The offense sputtered for a second straight week as they have scored just nine points in the last two games. "You can't do what we're doing now," New York's Jason Taylor said. The Jets would recover three fumbles and sack Henne five times.
Analysis: New York's DST remains a solid option, but has to have the offense make some plays to give them time to rest on game day. With a banged up secondary, opposing teams will look to exploit that. The Jets also lost DB Eric Smith with what coach Rex Ryan thinks could be a concussion. It doesn't get any easier for New York as they face Pittsburgh in Week 15. Fantasy owners can still view the Jets DST as a viable start, but it may be wise to find a nice alternative just in case.
News: After getting embarrassed on Monday against the Patriots, New York will try to get back on track against Miami in Week 14. The Jets are plus-4 in the turnover battle on the year, and the Dolphins find themselves on the opposite end of the spectrum, as they sit at minus-6 in the turnover category. In the team's first meeting, Miami QB Chad Henne threw for a career-high 363 yards and two touchdowns. The Jets will be using DB Dwight Lowery at the safety position a lot more frequently now. It is a change he is openly embracing. "I feel like it fits my abilities more," he said. "I'm a ball hawk. I always want to be around the ball and chasing the ball." New York allows 87.5 yards on the ground and 218.4 passing yards per contest through the first thirteen weeks in the season.
Analysis: The Jets defense surrendered a season-high 45 points on 405 yards of total offense in Week 13 against the Patriots. With New York hurting in the secondary it will be interesting to see how quick Miami tests them deep. The Jets will try to force Henne into mistakes and if they can get to him, it will be a long day for Miami. Consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST option as they look to get back on track against Miami.
News: The Jets defense surrendered a season-high 45 points on 405 yards of total offense in Week 13 against the Patriots. Tom Brady completely picked apart New York's secondary throwing for 326 yards and four touchdown passes. The Jets did wind up with three sacks in the 45-3 loss but had a hard time getting to Brady most of the night. The Patriots were able to score on their first three possession of the game, quickly building a 17-0 lead. New York was unable to force any turnovers in the loss and also allowed over 100 yards rushing in the contest.
Analysis: The Jets defense was exposed on Monday night. Playing in their first game without S Jim Leonhard, New England attacked the Jets right down the middle of the field and went after backup S Eric Smith. New York also had problems getting to Brady, even when they brought heavy pressure on the gunslinger. The Jets don't have much time to sulk as they face the division rival Dolphins in Week 14. Miami had some success moving the ball against the Jets in the team's first meeting this season, but we expect New York to be much sharper on defense this time around. Consider the Jets a No. 1 Fantasy DST against the Dolphins.
News: Jets DB Jim Leonhard will have surgery Friday after breaking his tibia in practice. "It changed practice for sure, just the mood of the practice," defensive coordinator Mike Pettine said. Reports are that Leonhard will miss the rest of the season, but the Jets won't say anything until after the surgery.
Analysis: This a big blow for the Jets defense, as Leonard plays a key role from his safety position. However, the real key for the Jets will be to get the pass rush, one of the so-called weak spots for the league's No. 3 defense, going early. Tom Brady has been protected well, though, having been sacked only twice in his last three games, and three times in his last five. Brady is certainly having another impressive season with his 105.8 quarterback rating ranking second in the NFL to Philadelphia's Michael Vick (106.0). His 23 touchdown passes are tied for the league lead. The Jets pressured or hit Brady 23 times in last season's victory over the Patriots at home. They disguised coverages and blitzes out of their 3-4 base defense and gave Brady little time to make decisions. There's no Randy Moss this time around, but it almost seems it doesn't matter with Brady. In the second meeting last season against the Jets, he found Wes Welker early and often, as the gutsy wide receiver set a career high with 15 receptions in the Patriots' 31-14 win at New England. This is a tough matchup for New York, but the Jets defense has shut down better teams before, so consider starting the Jets DST in all formats for Fantasy Week 13.
News: The New York Jets are out to make Tom Brady miserable in Week 13. Big hits, rushed throws and forced mistakes are all in the defense's game plan for the New England Patriots quarterback. Maybe even a few hard shoves to the turf, too. "It's going to be very imperative," linebacker Calvin Pace said, "that we get to him and kind of get in his head a little bit." With first place in the AFC East and the conference's best record on the line at New England on Monday night, New York knows the pressure's on to put pressure on Brady. "He's a guy that's going to the Hall of Fame, a guy that has all of the numbers, has the rings, so it all starts with him," defensive end Shaun Ellis said. "If we can make his job a lot harder, it'll be more to our advantage." The Jets know that from experience, particularly their 28-14 win at home in Week 2. New York sacked him only once, but constantly harassed and frustrated Brady. Two of his four interceptions this season came in that game. "I'd sign up for that again," coach Rex Ryan said.
Analysis: The key again for the Jets will be to get the pass rush, one of the so-called weak spots for the league's No. 3 defense, going early. Brady has been protected well, though, having been sacked only twice in his last three games, and three times in his last five. Brady is certainly having another impressive season with his 105.8 quarterback rating ranking second in the NFL to Philadelphia's Michael Vick (106.0). His 23 touchdown passes are tied for the league lead. The Jets pressured or hit Brady 23 times in last season's victory over the Patriots at home. They disguised coverages and blitzes out of their 3-4 base defense and gave Brady little time to make decisions. There's no Randy Moss this time around, but it almost seems it doesn't matter with Brady. In the second meeting last season against the Jets, he found Wes Welker early and often, as the gutsy wide receiver set a career high with 15 receptions in the Patriots' 31-14 win at New England. It's a tough matchup for New York, but the Jets defense has shut down better teams before, so consider starting the Jets DST in Fantasy Week 13.
News: After giving up an uncharacteristic 343 yards last week, the Jets defense rebounded with a strong effort against the Bengals in Week 12. Not only did they hold Cincinnati to just 163 yards, but they limited the Bengals to 10 points. QB Carson Palmer had thrown multiple touchdowns in seven straight games before the Jets held him to one, while intercepting him twice in the process. The pass rush was able to sack Palmer three times, but influenced his throws on nearly every attempt, including on a fourth quarter safety courtesy of Trevor Pryce's effort. Not to be outdone, the team's special teams unit came through in the fourth quarter when Brad Smith broke the game open after returning a kick 89 yards for a score to put the game out of reach. New York held starting RB Cedric Benson to just 41 yards and recovered a fumble after a punt hit Bengals WR Andre Caldwell.
Analysis: The Jets looked like themselves on Thursday night after looking like a pedestrian unit the week before. Stopping Benson -- who gashed them for 169 yards and two total TDs the last time the teams met -- was the key to focusing on the passing game and attacking palmer once they obtained the lead in the second half. They held the Bengals to 34 yards in the final two quarters. It won't be as easy in Week 13, against Tom Brady and the Patriots. When the two team's met in Week 2, the Pats exploded for 14 quick points before the jets tightened-up to shut them out in the second half. Still, the New England offense is re-tooled with the additions of WR Deion Branch and RB Danny Woodhead. Expect the Jets DST to be a solid Fantasy unit on Monday night.
News: The Jets defense uncharacteristically had to be bailed out by the offense late in the Week 11 win over the Texans. The proud unit will try to bounce back in Week 12 against the Bengals, a team that they shut down in two meetings in 2009 -- holding them to 14 points combined. This season's version of the Bengals is more explosive on offense, but also more careless. QB Carson Palmer is a microcosm of that concept, throwing for 18 scores, but getting intercepted 13 times in ten games. Last season, Cincinnati was a run-first team much like the Jets were, but that -- along with their playoff record -- is gone this season.
Analysis: The Jets have not been as good as we are used to in recent weeks. For one, their identity is supposed to be a disruptive, turnover-forcing 3-4 scheme. Well, they have forced three turnovers in their last four games. They had 14 in the first six games of the season. So the Thanksgiving night matchup could benefit the Jets if they can get back to forcing turnovers via pressuring the antsy, turnover-prone Palmer. We see them doing just that, especially if they play with the lead. Consider the Jets DST to be a must-start Fantasy option on Thursday.
News: The Jets offense had to bail out the defense in Week 11 against the Texans. After holding Houston to one touchdown in three quarters, the Jets defense had a monumental collapse in the fourth quarter, allowing the Texans to rack up 20 points and take a 27-23 lead. But the offense marched down the field and scored with 10 seconds left to steal a win from Houston. The Texans finished with 343 yards (97 rushing). New York forced one turnover and one sack.
Analysis: Although the defense had its trouble late in the game it still gets credit for shutting down WR Andre Johnson for a second straight season. Johnson managed just 32 receiving yards and didn't score. However, RB Arian Foster burned the Jets for two touchdowns. The Jets have allowed their last three opponents to score 20 or more points, but they are still one of the best defensive teams in the NFL. That is why the Jets DST remains a viable Fantasy start heading into Week 12, when New York hosts Cincinnati on Thanksgiving.
News: The Texans have never defeated the N.Y. Jets in four meetings since entering the league in 2002. They get a fifth shot to get that elusive victory in Week 11, but it will be no small feat. Houston's high-powered offense, ranked sixth at 372.9 yards per game, will likely need to step up if they want to pull the upset. The offense should have Matt Schaub at quarterback even though he was hospitalized Wednesday as a precaution due to a bursa sac injury in one of his knees. Kubiak expects Schaub, fifth in the AFC in completion percentage (64.2) and yards passing (2,320), to be ready to go Sunday. But it was just last season that New York defeated Houston, 24-7, in the 2009 opener. The Texans mustered just 11 first downs and 183 total yards.
Analysis: The Jets once again rank near the top of the league in defense. They are fifth in total defense (306.7 ypg) and third in scoring defense (16.7 ppg). Houston does have NFL leading rusher Arian Foster, but he was held to 56 yards against the Jaguars in Week 10. He now faces a New York defense that's fifth in the league with an average of 89.6 rushing yards allowed. The Jets showed last season that they could slow down the high-powered Houston offense, so consider starting the Jets DST in Fantasy Week 11.
News: The Jets DST made a solid contribution to a 26-20 overtime win over Cleveland in Week 10. They held the Browns to a total of 303 yards of offense, sacked rookie QB Colt McCoy three times, and forced a pair of fumbles. DB Antonio Cromartie's recovery of Browns WR Chansi Stuckey's fumble in overtime was a critical play leading to the Jets' victory. Stuckey had the ball at the Jets' 32-yard line, and would have set the Browns up for a potential field goal attempt.
Analysis: The Jets are one of the stingiest teams in the league when it comes to limiting opponents' yardage, but they have not been among the best at forcing turnovers. That has limited the DST's value in Fantasy, but they are still a worthwhile start in most weeks.
News: The Jets have sported one of the league's top defenses, ranking second in fewest points allowed and fourth in fewest yards allowed. In Week 10, they will go up against a Browns offense that ranks 25th in the league in both points and yardage. Only once this season has a team scored more than 20 points against the Jets, and that was the Dolphins in Week 3. Their pass defense has lagged behind their rush defense, which is the fourth-best in the league, but the Browns shouldn't pose much of a challenge. They have thrown only six touchdown passes all season long and rank 28th in passing attempts.
Analysis: This is a great matchup for the Jets' defense, so it's also a great week to start their DST in Fantasy. They are owned in all but two percent of leagues, but they are benched in 12 percent of leagues. Be sure to activate the Jets DST for Week 10.
News: The Jets DST held down the Lions late in the Week 9 game in Detroit. The Lions led the game 20-10 early in the fourth quarter but the Jets came storming back and eventually pulled out an overtime victory, 23-20, scoring 13 unanswered points. The Jets DST limited the Lions to 306 total yards of offense and Darrelle Revis held Calvin Johnson to just one catch for 13 yards. One thing the Jets DST did not do well in the game, however, was force turnovers. The Jets did not force a single turnover in the game and only managed two sacks of QB Matthew Stafford, who was injured late in the game.
Analysis: Once again, the Jets DST was not spectacular. They generally play well and are solid at limiting the opposition's points and yards. They are not opportune, however, with just five interceptions and nine fumble recoveries all year with 17 sacks. The Jets play at Cleveland in Week 10 and the Browns have been pretty good. Still, Colt McCoy is a young QB and the Jets DST could get some turnovers in that one. If you have been using the Jets DST as your starting unit all year, there is no reason to stop in Week 10.
News: The Jets DST has hardly played like a No. 1 Fantasy DST this season. After seven games, the Jets DST enters Week 9 at Detroit just 13th in terms of total Fantasy points earned this season. Of course, with Darrelle Revis returning to action last week, the Jets absolutely stopped the Green Bay passing game in its tracks. The Jets had their best defensive effort in Week 8 and that should continue against the Lions in Detroit.
Analysis: The Jets DST has been among the best at recovering fumbles this season but have come away with just five interceptions. That number might begin to rise now that Revis is back and teams will begin avoiding his side of the field. The Lions are a team which generally affords opposing DSTs solid production. Detroit has not given up monster points to opposing DSTs, but they do consistently make a few mistakes that turn into a solid game each and every week. If you have been using the Jets DST as your starting unit all year, there is no reason to stop in Week 9.
News: Playing with a healthy Darrelle Revis for the first time Week 8 against the Packers, the Jets hardly looked like a team that ranked 22nd against the pass over the first seven weeks, allowing an average of 229.0 yards per game. They held the Packers to nine points on 237 yards -- including only 170 for QB Aaron Rodgers -- and recorded two sacks.
Analysis: Both of the Jets' sacks came in the final two minutes of the second quarter. They concentrated on their pass coverage rather than their pass rush, and the approach worked against one of the league's premier quarterbacks. Of course, Revis' ability to shut down half the field likely had something to do with it. Now that the game's best cornerback is back up to speed, the Jets DST should regain its place as an elite Fantasy unit. Its first test will come against an experienced Lions team at Detroit in Week 9. You'll want the Jets DST active for that matchup.
News: Outspoken Jets DB Darrelle Revis is ready to go Week 8 against the Packers, declaring his bothersome left hamstring 100 percent healthy after rehabbing during the bye. The defense, ranked No. 1 last season, has clearly missed him playing at his usual shutdown level. The Jets are 22nd against the pass, and 12th overall -- numbers coach Rex Ryan is convinced will improve. "Our objective is to lead the league in wins," Ryan said. "When it's all settled, I expect have the best defense in the league, like always." The unit will get a major test against QB Aaron Rodgers and one of the top passing offenses in the league. Rodgers completed 21 of 34 passes for 295 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in a 28-24 win over Minnesota last week. "They're impressive," Jets linebacker Calvin Pace said. "Defensively, we've got to be on point."
Analysis: We'll know just how healthy Revis is if the Jets are able to shut down a Packers passing attack that ranks eighth in the league, piling up 250.7 yards per game. The good news is the Packers don't offer much of a running game with Ryan Grant sidelined by an ankle injury, ranking 20th in the league with 99.3 yards per game. If the Jets are able to key in on the pass, Revis will have that much more of an opportunity to work his magic. Given its upside, you should probably stick with the Jets DST in Fantasy despite the iffy matchup.
News: New York entered Week 6 as one of the best run defenses in the NFL. Their opponent, Denver, hadn't rushed for 100 yards in a game yet this season. That changed in Week 6 as the Broncos totaled 145 yards on the ground spread out between seven different players. Denver entered Week 6 with just four runs of 10-yards or more; they had two in the first quarter. The Jets didn't get to Kyle Orton much, as they sacked him just once and failed to intercept a pass. The Jets yielded a total of 346 yards and 21 first downs on Sunday. "Are we playing as well as we did last year on defense? No. But I’ll take it this way," coach Rex Ryan said. "We’re finding ways to win at the end of games." DB Darrelle Revis recovered a fumble on Denver's opening drive of the game after RB Knowshon Moreno had the ball ripped from his arms after a 14-yard run. That was Revis' second fumble recovery in as many games. The Jets would also recover a fumble with less than a minute left in the game, sealing their 24-20 victory. Broncos rookie center J.D. Walton mishandled a snap and Orton couldn't hold onto the ball. The kid is rookie and I lined up on him and went ‘Boo,'" New York DL Trevor Pryce said jokingly. He said Walton may have felt he had to get the ball out quickly to single block Pryce.
Analysis: New York allowed a lot of yards again in Week 6, but more on the ground than they had all year. They entered Week 6 allowing just 79 yards per game on the ground. They managed to slow down Orton and the passing game though, something they've struggled with at times this season. They go into Week 7 with a bye and have two weeks to prepare for Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay. The Packers have a high-powered offense, but have been hit hard with injuries this year. Being well rested and playing at home, the Jets' DST should be considered a No. 1 option yet again. Some one-week replacements could be Chiefs (vs. Jags), Saints (vs. Browns) or Seahawks (vs. Cardinals).
News: New York will try to put as much pressure on Denver QB Kyle Orton in Week 6. Orton has been sacked 12 this year and thrown for 1,733 yards through five weeks. The Jets defense has 12 sacks on the year, but got a key piece back last week versus Minnesota -- LB Calvin Pace. Pace recorded 1.5 sacks in his debut. Pace and DL Shaun Ellis -- who looks for his fourth straight game with at least a 0.5 sack -- will have to keep Orton in check, as he's been explosive this year. It is still uncertain if the Jets will be with CB Darrelle Revis (hamstring), who was limited in practice on Wednesday. "I've never been hurt during the season, and I want to do the right thing," he said regarding his status for Week 6.
Analysis: The Jets defense gave up a lot of yards to Brett Favre and the Vikings in Week 5 during the second half and will need to play a complete game against Orton if they want to improve to 5-1. New York may have to rely on their offense and it's running game to control the clock to keep Orton and his offense off the field. While Denver doesn't have a Randy Moss in their receiving corps, they've been extremely effective this year. It should be up to the Jets' front seven to put pressure on Orton to help out their secondary with or without Revis. Fantasy owners should still consider the Jets DST a solid No. 1 option for Week 6.
News:Darrelle Revis' balky left hamstring is acting up again. The Jets cornerback said his leg was "very sore" after the team's victory over the Vikings on Monday night and head coach Rex Ryan was not sure Tuesday if Revis will play against Denver on Sunday. "There was added swelling in his leg," Ryan said, "but hopefully he'll be ready to roll."
Analysis: Revis returned Monday night after missing two games with a strained hamstring, sustained in the first half of the Jets' 28-14 win over the New England Patriots in Week 2. The Jets surely need him for their matchup against the pass-happy Broncos offense. If he's out, the unit could struggle to contain Denver's receivers. Remember, the Jets will be playing on a short week in Denver. There could be safer DST options for owners to consider.
News: The Jets DST allowed 20 points on 336 yards of total offense in Week 5 against the Vikings. The unit held Adrian Peterson under 100 yards and out of the end zone during the 29-20 and gave Brett Favre fits. While he did throw a two touchdown passes in the loss, he was sacked four times and forced into three turnovers. The Jets defense forced Favre to fumble twice and throw an interception, which was picked off and returned for the game-clinching touchdown by Dwight Lowery late in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: The Jets defense has been living up to the hype they created for themselves during training camp by dominating their opponents. The unit now has eight sacks and six turnovers over the last two games and did a great job keeping one of the leagues best rushers under the century mark on Monday. They will face another stiff challenge in Week 6 at Denver against a Bronco's team that has been surprisingly effective on offense. They might also might be without cornerback Darrelle Revis, who has been battling a sore hamstring all season. Fantasy owners can leave the unit active heading into Week 6, as they have the talent to match up with the Broncos, even without Revis.
News:The Sports Xchange reports most of the current Jets who were with the team in 2008 remember Brett Favre for his outgoing personality, fun-loving nature and practical jokes. But Bryan Thomas recalls something else. "You have some things that you pick up from watching him in practice," the Jets linebacker said. "This guy over the years has had a great hard count. If you watch the film, he makes a lot of guys jump offsides, and that's something you have to prepare for." And certainly something the Jets have seen, and heard, up close. So perhaps when they host Minnesota in Week 5, their prior experience in practicing against Favre will be a benefit. If cornerback Darrelle Revis (hamstring) and linebacker Calvin Pace (foot) return to action, as is expected, seven of the Jets' 11 starters on defense will have played on the same team as Favre. "People ask that, or people think that it would be obvious, 'Hey, he knows them or they know Brett,' and so forth. I don't know," Favre said. "There are a fair amount of guys that are still there that I practiced against, but they're playing as good as anyone in the league. That's not blowing smoke. They give you a lot of different looks. It's a confusing 3-4. I don't see (the familiarity) as much of an advantage either way."
Analysis: Coach Rex Ryan praised Favre, saying, "He still throws it like the old saying, 'He can throw a strawberry through a battleship.' He's got that great arm, and he still does. He can change the arm angle. It's crazy what he does. You guys (reporters) know. You saw it up close and personal. It's still the same guy." Favre is hoping the acquisition of Randy Moss from New England will help him and the Vikings, who have averaged only 14.3 points through their first three games. The Jets rank 13th in total defense (308.0 ypg) and seventh in scoring defense (15.2 ppg). The return of Revis and Pace should only help the Jets' cause. Consider keeping the Jets DST active in Fantasy Week 5. They do have the talent to match the Vikings' offensive personnel.
News: The Jets DST faced an over-matched Bills offense Week 4 in Buffalo and it wasn't pretty for the home team. Buffalo, which lost the game 38-14, only managed 223 yards of total offense against the Jets. The one thing the Jets DST didn't do, however, was force many turnovers. They did not come up with an interception in the game but did recover two fumbles. Shaun Ellis, Dwight Lowery and James Ihedigbo each recorded a sack of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in the contest.
Analysis: The Jets DST has been a solid but underachieving unit this season in large part to the absence of Darrelle Revis. That said, they have certainly limited points scored against them and have already managed eight sacks in four games. They've also recorded four interceptions and six forced fumbles. Revis could be returning for Week 5 against Minnesota in New York. Brett Favre and company better watch out in that one as the Jets DST should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Jets DST still does not know if it will have Darrelle Revis at its disposal for Week 4 in Buffalo. Luckily, the Jets DST doesn't really need him against the Bills. Buffalo has given up the seventh-most Fantasy points on average to opposing DSTs thus far this season after games against the Dolphins, Packers and Patriots and they haven't even given up a defensive touchdown. All together, Buffalo has been sacked eight times and has thrown four interceptions.
Analysis: Buffalo's offense has been dismal and the Jets DST has remained a low-end No. 1 unit even with missing Revis and without scoring a defensive touchdown. Revis has not been ruled out yet by coach Rex Ryan and, with him in tow, the Jets DST might even be the top overall Fantasy DST option for Week 4. With or without Revis Island, the Jets DST should be considered a No. 1 unit for the upcoming game.
News: The Jets were without shutdown cornerback Darrelle Revis because of a hamstring Week 3 at Miami, and it showed. The Dolphins piled up 436 yards of offense against them, including 352 through the air. They also scored 23 points. The Jets defense was just good enough to pull out the victory, though, forcing the game's only turnover -- an interception by DB Drew Coleman. The Jets also recorded two sacks and blocked a punt.
Analysis: Revis is no doubt a huge part of the Jets defense. Opposing quarterbacks simply refuse to throw the ball his way, taking half the field out of the equation. Still, the Jets looked like they'd be OK without him after they shut out Tom Brady and the Patriots in the second half of Week 2, after Revis had already left the game. Revis' status for Week 4 is still up in the air, but considering the Jets are visiting the lowly Bills, it might not matter. The Jets DST still has enough playmakers to take advantage of a weak offensive opponent, making it a must-start for that matchup.
News: The Jets DST stepped up in a win over the Patriots last week, but at Miami in Week 3, they'll have to go a full four quarters without the services of shutdown cornerback Darrelle Revis, who strained his left hamstring while attempting to cover Randy Moss on a 34-yard touchdown last week. They'll have to make full use of their elite pass rush, as Jason Taylor and company hope to create problems for quarterback Chad Henne and a Dolphins offense that has sputtered at times, ranking 27th in the NFL in total yards. The unit was held without any points for the final three quarters last week in Minnesota, with Miami's final touchdown coming on a fumble recovery. Still, the Dolphins did have success against the Jets last season, topping 30 points in each of their two meetings.
Analysis: Revis is far and away the best cornerback in the NFL and a key player in New York's defense, but the Jets don't need him to succeed, as evidenced by them shutting out the Patriots in the second half of Week 2, after Revis had already left the game. Antonio Cromartie is a pretty good cornerback in his own right and should be able to limit Brandon Marshall, the Dolphins' only real receiving threat. QB Chad Henne has averaged 148 passing yards in two games and doesn't have much experience, so if the Jets can capitalize on his mistakes and key in on the running game, their DST could still have a big-time performance. Treat it as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option this week.
News: The Jets wasted no time after their first practice Wednesday, ruling DB Darrelle Revis out for Week 3 at Miami with his hamstring injury.
Analysis: The Jets would surely have loved to put Revis on WR Brandon Marshall for this crucial divisional matchup, but now that job will likely to go DB Antonio Cromartie, who did a good job of limiting Randy Moss to just two catches for 38 yards in Week 2. The unit has a nice matchup against the offensively-challenged Dolphins in Week 3, so continue to use them in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Jets defense gave up 14 points to the Patriots in the first half of Week 2, but settled down after halftime. Despite not having standout cornerback Darrelle Revis the entire second half, New York was able to hold New Endland scoreless while intercepting QB Tom Brady twice in the 28-14 win. Antonio Cormartie covered Randy Moss in the second half and came away with one of the interceptions. Brodney Pool collected the other pick after Moss battled the ball up in the air. Jason Taylor, who also was injured in the game, recorded the Jets only sack and forced a fumble.
Analysis: The Jets gave up 248 passing yards and another 52 on the ground in Week 2 but looked dominant in the second half, even without Revis. Cromartie did an excellent job of limiting Moss to just two catches and the Jets showed that they have enough depth to still be a dominant defense even with a couple of guys banged up. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on the statuses of Revis and Taylor but continue to view the Jets DST as a No. 1 option in all leagues heading into Week 3 against the Dolphins.
News: Rex Ryan says cornerback Darrelle Revis will be listed as probable with tightness in his left hamstring, but will play in the Jets' game against the New England Patriots. Ryan says Revis "did pretty good" at practice Friday after being limited on Thursday. Revis participated in about half the team's practice Thursday and came out when the Jets went into 2-minute drills. Revis appeared to be unhindered during the half-hour of practice the media were allowed to watch Friday. Ryan maintained that the injury is minor and the team just wanted to be cautious and not push its star player through the tightness.
Analysis: It will help the Jets that they'll have Revis playing, but the fact remains that the Patriots' offense is explosive and could put up some points on them in Week 2. The Jets defense gave up 233 yards in the air in their season opener and face a Patriots offense that threw for 258 yards and three touchdowns last week. We'd caution you not to start the Jets DST in Week 2, though we wouldn't cut them or another player on your roster to find a replacement off waivers. You're sort of stuck if you own the Jets DST.
News: The Jets defense gave up 233 yards in the air in their season opener and face a Patriots offense in Week 2 that threw for 258 yards and three touchdowns. New York was able to stuff the run in Week 1 against the Ravens but lost NT Kris Jenkins for the year because of a torn ACL in his left knee. Also, shutdown CB Darrelle Revis was limited at practice on Thursday with a hamstring injury. "I'm not overly concerned right now," said coach Rex Ryan. "But any time it's a hamstring, you get a little nervous." If the Jets plan on having success against QB Tom Brady and the Pats, they will have to play more disciplined ball and cut down on penalties. New York held New England to 40 combined points in two games last season.
Analysis: The Jets DST had almost as many penalty yards in Week 1 as they did offense, including numerous ones that gave the Ravens first downs. Jenkins is a big blow but they were able to compete much of last season and Monday night without him. Revis is a more worrying injury as he will be in charge of keeping All-Pro WR Randy Moss in check. New York will not want to start the season 0-2 so expect some urgency out their defense, which is the face of their team. Fantasy owners know that the Jets have the talent to be a No. 1 option but don't consider them a must-start for Week 2 against the Patriots.
News: Jets DL Kris Jenkins has torn the ACL in his left knee for the second straight season and will miss the rest of the season. He tore it on Monday night against the Ravens and was replaced on the D-line by Mike DeVito.
Analysis: Jenkins missed the last 10 games of 2009 with this same injury, and his loss will be a big one for the Jets defense as a whole. They might be a little more susceptible to the run now, but we'll just have to see how things go over the next few weeks. The defense will be tested in Week 2 when the Patriots come to the Meadowlands, so don't consider them a must-start option given the explosiveness of the New England offense.
News: The Jets allowed 282 yards of offense against the Ravens in Week 1, but most of it came through the air. New York held Baltimore to just 49 yards rushing, even with NT Kris Jenkins missing most of the game with a knee injury. Although they gave up 248 passing yards, Antonio Cromartie had an interception and the Jets brought down QB Joe Flacco twice. The Jets nearly missed blocking a kick, but Braylon Edwards was flagged for running into the kicker to keep the drive going.
Analysis: The Jets looked like the dominant force that they were a year ago on Monday night but were heavily penalized and gave up big plays on third down. They brought all kinds of blitz packages against Flacco, including when Shaun Ellis got to him on the first play and caused a fumble. The Jets face a potent Patriots offense in Week 2 that scored 38 points against the Bengals in Week 1. Fantasy owners should continue to view the Jets defense as a No. 1 option.
News: The Jets face a Ravens team during Week 1 that ranked fifth in the league in rushing last season and bring back RB Ray Rice, who compiled over 2,000 yards from scrimmage in 2010. New York received a huge boost when Darrelle Revis signed a new contract and the addition of Antonio Cromartie should help shut down Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason. The Jets were eighth in the NFL against the run a year ago and have a healthy Kris Jenkins at nose tackle to help plug up the middle.
Analysis: The Jets allowed 98.6 yards per game last season and should be able to continue that trend as they bring back pretty much their entire defensive front this year. Calvin Pace being out for Week 1 is a little bit of a downer but the Jets have some young linebackers that can put pressure on the quarterback and help force mistakes. Fantasy owners should continue to view the Jets D as an elite option even though they will be facing a tough opponent in Baltimore on Monday night.
News:Darrelle Revis and the Jets agreed to a new contract early Monday morning, ending the All-Pro cornerback's holdout a week before the team's season opener. Revis' holdout began Aug. 1, when the team reported for training camp in Cortland. He was scheduled to make $1 million in the fourth year of his six-year rookie deal but said he wanted to become the league's highest-paid cornerback. The Daily News reported Sunday night that coach Rex Ryan flew to Revis' home in South Florida over the weekend to try to help get a deal done. The Jets open their season Sept. 13 against the Ravens.
Analysis: This is huge news because it all but guarantees the Jets DST will be an elite Fantasy unit again this season. Revis is that good. He's the one cornerback every Fantasy owner knows by name because he's responsible for shutting down every elite wide receiver who crossed his path last season. His ability to eliminate the passing game frees up the front seven to rush the passer with the same reckless abandon they did last year, which should lead to big Fantasy production. If your league has yet to conduct its draft, the Jets DST should probably be the first one off the board.
News: The New York Daily News reports Jets coach Rex Ryan met with holdout Darrelle Revis this weekend in Florida to discuss the All-Pro cornerback's contract dispute. Both sides seem to be talking, but a deal doesn't appear imminent as the Jets' Week 1 opener against the Ravens nears.
Analysis: Everyone knows how good Revis is, but with Ryan making a Hail Mary attempt before the regular season begins, we have to wonder if he is confident with the players he has in place in the secondary. The Jets have a good set of defensive starters. Their biggest weakness is with the backups, which Revis is not. Even if he doesn't show up in the next week, the Jets DST is still looking good as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Jets LB Calvin Pace will have surgery on his broken foot, coach Rex Ryan has confirmed. A specialist in North Carolina will perform the procedure, but no other specifics are available. "We'll know more about the extent of the injury after the surgery," Ryan said. Linebacker Bart Scott acknowledged the loss of Pace, along with absent CB Darrelle Revis, will have an impact. "Whenever you've got two quality players like that it's going to be tremendously difficult to stay at that level," Scott said. "We can get the job done, but we have to go about it a different way."
Analysis: It was going to be one thing to be without top corner Revis on the field but not having Pace is like double damage for the Jets DST. We still think Revis could make it on the field for the opener but Pace looks like a long shot. The Jets DST would still be a starting option even if Revis' holdout continues and Pace's injury lingers, but we'd rather see them on the field and ready for the start of the season. Keep an eye on what develops, and hopefully the situations will be resolved.
News: Jets owner Woody Johnson is not optimistic that a deal for All-Pro CB Darrelle Revis will be done by the beginning of the regular season. The Jets rejected an offer proposed by Revis' agents on Friday during a meeting at a diner in Roscoe. Johnson offered a stern, "The answer's no," when asked Monday if he felt a deal could be done by Week 1. Agents Neil Schwartz and Jonathan Feinsod met with GM Mike Tannenbaum and director of football administration Ari Nissim, offering a long-term contract to try to make some headway in the dispute. Schwartz said they were waiting for a response, but Tannenbaum said both sides had a "pretty good sense" of where things stood after the meeting. If Revis does not report by midnight Tuesday, he will lose an entire accrued season regardless of when he ultimately returns. According to sources, as of right now, he is not expected to make that deadline.
Analysis: Not having Revis on the field to start the season would be a significant blow to the Jets DST. Revis is a key part of why the Jets DST is the No. 1 option at the position on Draft Day. The Jets DST would still be a starting option even if Revis' holdout continues, but we'd rather see him on the field and ready for the start of the season. Keep an eye on what develops, and hopefully the situation will be resolved soon.
News: Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis is holding out from training camp, locked in a contract dispute with the team. Revis did not report with the rest of the teammates Sunday as they arrived for the start of the camp. Revis did not take the conditioning test with the rest of his teammates at the Jets' facilities in Florham Park, N.J. In a statement issued by his agents, Neil Schwartz and Jon Feinsod, they said they waited until the last minute to try and get something done. They added "Darrelle will not be in camp." "Darrelle and his family were extremely deliberate with the decision-making process. Schwartz told the Associated Press on Sunday. "Obviously his actions speak far louder than words."
Analysis: Revis is to make $1 million in the fourth year of his six-year rookie deal, but he wants to be the league's highest-paid cornerback. Oakland's Nnamdi Asomugha holds that distinction, signing a three-year, $45.3 million extension last offseason. For Fantasy owners' sake, we hope the Jets and Revis can come to a quick resolution, because an unhappy Revis is not good for anyone. He figures to be middle- to low-end No. 2 Fantasy DB in IDP leagues since his tackle totals and lack of passes thrown regularly in his direction eliminate the big-stat potential you'd normally want from a defensive back. We doubt he misses the season, but if this becomes a serious matter, then losing Revis for an extended period could also hurt the Jets DST Fantasy value. Stay tuned.
News: Jets CB Darrelle Revis was not in attendance for the start of the Jets' voluntary OTAs on Thursday. Sources claim that Revis is unhappy and "furious" by the contract extension made by the Jets to his representatives, according to the New York Post. Revis is also reportedly suggesting that the Jets are taking the same approach with his contract that they did with previous players who ultimately left the team. The Post doubts that Revis will attend training camp. "This is voluntary camp," head coach Rex Ryan said when asked about Revis' absence. "You'd have to ask him the reason why he wasn't here." Ryan added that he hasn't talked to Revis.
Analysis: A training camp holdout could cause problems not just for him, but for the Jets defense too. If he can end his squabble with the Jets and get into camp on-time, the team's DST will easily remain the top option in Fantasy Football. But a lengthy holdout by Revis could result in trouble for the Jets' secondary. For now, keep positive about the Jets DST and expect them to be taken first among all DSTs in drafts this summer, starting around Round 10.
News: The Jets ranked No. 1 in overall defense and pass defense last season, and they added another player in Boise State CB Kyle Wilson, who was considered one of the top cornerbacks available in the draft. They took Wilson despite already having All-Pro Darrelle Revis, newly acquired Antonio Cromartie and Dwight Lowery at cornerback. Wilson was the leader of a 2009 Broncos secondary that ranked 21st nationally, allowing just 179.86 passing yards per game, and he finished with a career-high 43 tackles (31 solo) and ranked third on the team with three interceptions. He also returned two punts for touchdowns, proving he can also work on special teams. "We feel like with that set of four corners, that gives us a better chance to compete against the passing attacks that we have to face each year in the AFC," GM Mike Tannenbaum said. "We're excited about Kyle."
Analysis: Wilson might play at nickelback this season but should ultimately form a powerful tandem with CB Darrelle Revis. This only makes the Jets defense stronger, and it helps their punt-return game too. With the team adding Jason Taylor and Antonio Cromartie this offseason to a team already loaded with great talent, it's no surprise to consider them the best DST in Fantasy. Begin considering them for Fantasy use in Round 10.
News: Free-agent LB Jason Taylor agreed to a contract with the Jets on Tuesday, another bold move by New York that bolsters the league's No. 1 defense with a fierce pass rusher from the rival Dolphins. The 35-year-old Taylor, the NFL's active sacks leader, has played 12 of his 13 seasons with the Dolphins. He now joins a team he has long considered an enemy. He visited the Jets two weeks ago but left without a deal, waiting to see if Miami would re-sign him after the draft. After vacationing in Costa Rica last weekend, Taylor decided to go with coach Rex Ryan and the Jets. Taylor has had a contentious relationship with Jets fans, calling them ignorant and classless. Now, he'll try to endear himself to those same fans, the way Brett Favre did in Minnesota or Donovan McNabb hopes to do in Washington. Either way, it's the latest headline-grabbing acquisition by the Jets, who have clear intentions of making a Super Bowl run this season after losing in the AFC championship game to Indianapolis in January.
Analysis: Taylor, the 2006 Defensive Player of the Year, has 127.5 career sacks and provides the Jets with a proven pass rusher who should fit right into Ryan's aggressive 3-4 defensive scheme. He will likely be used in a situational pass-rushing role as a hybrid linebacker-defensive end. Taylor played with the Dolphins from 1997-07 before playing one season in Washington. He returned to Miami last season with a one-year contract and said he wanted to keep playing, preferably with the Dolphins, rather than retire. He has increased value with the Jets based on his ability to improve his sack total, but since he will play in a situational role, he isn't expected to post many tackles. Consider him a low-end LB heading into 2010 in IDP leagues, but he will only enhance the Jets DST as the No. 1 option.
News: The Jets and safety Brodney Pool, whose career appeared to be threatened by head injuries, agreed in principle to a one-year contract Thursday worth $1.3 million. The 25-year-old Pool gives the Jets a replacement for Kerry Rhodes, whom they traded to Arizona last weekend - as long as Pool remains healthy. He has been cleared to play, but Pool missed Cleveland's final five games last season after sustaining what reportedly was at least his fourth known concussion.
Analysis: Pool has been a good safety in the past, but there will always be concern about his health. This doesn't necessarily help the Jets defense, but it doesn't hurt much either although the team should invest in a quality backup behind Pool. The Jets DST remains a No. 1 option worth taking around Round 9 or 10 if you're happy with how your draft shapes up.
News: A few hours before the NFL's free agency period began, the Jets improved their secondary in a big way by agreeing in principle with the San Diego Chargers to acquire talented but troubled cornerback Antonio Cromartie on Thursday night. The Jets confirmed the deal, but didn't release specifics - although it is believed to be for a draft pick in 2011. He has 15 interceptions in four seasons since being the 19th overall pick out of Florida State in 2006, but the Chargers were dissatisfied with Cromartie's performance late last season and in the playoffs.
Analysis: Cromartie certainly keeps the Jets secondary strong since they have rid themselves of CB Lito Sheppard. It's going to be tough to throw on the Jets, and their run defense should also remain very strong. They remain the top Fantasy DST in the league and worthy of a pick in the middle-to-late rounds in drafts.
News: Jets defensive end Shaun Ellis and linebackers David Harris and Bart Scott are probable for the AFC championship game despite being limited at practice Friday with injuries. Ellis has a broken left hand that will be in a cast for the game against the Indianapolis Colts. He'll have surgery after the game, whether the Jets win or lose. Harris (right ankle) and Scott (left ankle) were noticeably hobbled Friday during practice. Safety Kerry Rhodes was a full participant after bumping his right knee in practice Thursday. Cornerback Donald Strickland fully participated despite breaking his right pinkie in practice earlier this week.
Analysis: The Jets DST isn't a terrible option in Playoff Challenge leagues, though we'd recommend the Saints and Colts over them at this point. This DST will get healthy long before the start of next season, however, and they should be a strong unit then.
News: As the Jets got DE Shaun Ellis back at practice on a limited basis with a broken hand, safety Kerry Rhodes bumped his knee and was limited during practice, as were linebackers Bart Scott (left ankle) and David Harris (right ankle). All are expected to play.
Analysis: The Jets DST is a decent option for Playoff Challenge leagues since they might not get completely torched by the Colts in the AFC title game. But heading into 2010, they're going to be a very popular option picked before the last couple of rounds of drafts.
News: Jets LB David Harris returned to practice on a limited basis Thursday after missing two days while recovering from a sprained right ankle. Harris, the leading tackler on the league's top-ranked defense, said the injury was a result of what he thought was an illegal hit last Sunday against Cincinnati. He was at his usual ILB spot Thursday in early drills and wasn't noticeably hobbled. Harris said his ankle felt "kind of stiff," but hopes to play in the first-round playoff game at Cincinnati on Saturday. "I've been out here all day getting treatment and doing rehab and everything I can to get back out there on the field," Harris said. "Hopefully, I'll be fine by Saturday."
Analysis: Harris had a rebound year with the Jets and finished as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy LB. He's a big part of what the Jets do and should remain at worst a No. 2 option in 2010 drafts.
News: The Jets defense shut out the Bengals on Sunday in a 37-0 win that secured a Wild Card spot for the team. The Bengals mustered only four completions in the game on 19 attempts, gaining 31 yards. On the ground, the Bengals came up with only 72 rushing yards on 18 attempts. The Jets came up with an interception, two fumble recoveries and three quarterback sacks.
Analysis: The Jets had the top defense in the league as Rex Ryan did a phenomenal job in his first season with the team. The unit allowed less than 15 points in each of its final six games and should be a force to be reckoned with for years to come. The Jets DST will be one of the first DSTs selected on Draft Day in 2010.
News: With Peyton Manning out of the game in the third quarter, the Jets were able to stage a comeback and upset the Colts, 29-15, in Week 16. The Jets jumped out to a 16-15 lead after Marques Douglas recovered a fumble by Manning's replacement, Curtis Painter, and returned it 1 yard for a touchdown late in the third quarter. The Jets defense then shut out the Colts in the fourth quarter. Indianapolis managed 277 yards while the Jets got a pair of sacks and two turnovers. New York also got a special teams score from Brad Smith, who returned the opening kickoff in the second half 106 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Jets defense has played very well late in the season. They have not allowed more than 15 points in their last five games. The Jets DST did let Fantasy owners down in the middle of the season, but they are now coming up big in arguably the most important time of the season. New York plays Cincinnati in Week 17 with a shot at the playoffs, so consider starting the Jets DST.
News: The Jets DST held the Falcons to 10 points and 238 yards in a Week 15 loss to Atlanta. They did not force a turnover or tally a sack, however.
Analysis: The Jets defense is a solid unit and has now played pretty well for a month straight. They will have their work cut out for them in Week 16 though when they visit Indianapolis. You might want to look elsewhere for a DST unit with that difficult matchup.
News: The New York Jets dominated the Tampa Bay Bucs in Week 14 and they did so with an underwhelming offensive performance. The Bucs offense was just dismal and that is how the Jets came away 26-3 winners. The Jets DST limited the Bucs to just 124 total yards in the game and forced four turnovers. Bucs QB Josh Freeman was goaded into throwing three interceptions and one of his completions to Antonio Bryant saw Bryant fumble away the ball. The Jets DST also sacked Freeman three times in the win.
Analysis: The Jets limited the points and yards and came up with three sacks and four turnovers forced in Week 14 against the lowly Buccaneers. That is solid Fantasy production for any DST unit. New York plays another porous offensive team in Week 15 at home against the Atlanta Falcons. The Jets DST deserves to remain active in most Fantasy leagues for that matchup.
News: The Jets had a dominant defensive performance at Buffalo in Week 13, allowing 13 points on only 194 yards. They also had three sacks and one interception and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Jets DST was one of the most dominant in Fantasy earlier in the season, and it has gotten back on track with a few good matchups in recent weeks. It has another one Week 14 at Tampa Bay, so keep it active in Fantasy.
News: The Jets DST had a great game Sunday against Carolina in a 17-6 victory. The Jets had four interceptions (two each for Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes) and three sacks. David Clowney had two kickoff returns for 44 yards, Brad Smith had one kickoff return for 38 yards and Jerricho Cotchery had three punt returns for 32 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST played well against the Panthers and should do well in Week 13 at Buffalo on Thursday night. Consider the Jets DST a No. 1 option against the Bills.
News:Tom Brady completed 28 of 41 passes for 310 yards, Wes Welker set career highs with 15 receptions and 192 yards, and Laurence Maroney ran for two touchdowns during the Patriots' 31-14 win over the Jets in Week 11. For the Jets (4-6), this game was decided long before the final seconds, unlike the previous Sunday. They lost a week ago 24-22 to the Jacksonville Jaguars on a field goal on the last play. The next day, New York coach Rex Ryan cried at a team meeting, explaining later that he's an emotional person. There was a lot more for him to feel bad about Week 11, when there were only two major failures by the Patriots. One of them came when Eric Smith blocked Chris Hanson's punt and Brad Smith returned the ball 4 yards for a touchdown as the Jets cut the halftime margin to 24-7. Still, the Jets defense allowed 410 yards and forced only one turnover -- a fumble. Shaun Ellis also had two sacks.
Analysis: The Jets beat the Patriots, 16-9, in Week 2 and made Brady look like a fool in his second game back from a major knee injury. It didn't happen a second time as Brady had his fifth straight 300-yard performance. The Jets defense has allowed 20 or more points in four straight games after a shutout of Oakland on Oct. 25. The good news is that safety Jim Leonhard is playing through a thumb injury. The bad news is that Ryan needs to work with his defense. The Jets DST is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 12 against the Panthers.
News: Jets safety Jim Leonhard is questionable for the team's game at New England after being limited in practice Friday with a broken right thumb. Leonhard, injured in last Sunday's loss to Jacksonville, returned to practice and participated in individual drills as well as some team activities while wearing a cast on his hand. Coach Rex Ryan said he'd consult with Leonhard and the team's trainers to see how he feels leading up to the game Sunday. "It was better than I thought it would be," Leonhard said of practicing with the cast. "If I wasn't able to do that today, it would have been very hard to play on Sunday. ... If it was up to me, I'd like to be out there," Leonhard said. Eric Smith would get the start opposite Kerry Rhodes if Leonhard can't play. The Jets also ruled out linebacker Vernon Gholston for the second straight week with a hamstring injury. Gholston was injured in practice last Monday in the team's first workout off the bye-week break.
Analysis: The Patriots will see Leonhard's absence as a sign they can attack downfield, but Leonhard is more of a run stopper than a pass defender. This surely won't help the Jets in Week 11 when they play at the Patriots. Consider other options before going with them in their matchup at New England. Consider the Packers DST (home vs. San Francisco) or Jaguars DST (home vs. Buffalo) instead.
News: Jets safety Jim Leonhard had three pins inserted into his broken right thumb and his arm is in a sling, leaving his status for New York's game against New England uncertain. Coach Rex Ryan said Leonhard had surgery Monday night and didn't practice Wednesday, but wouldn't rule him out. "He's got three screws, I believe, so if they can tighten them up for this game, we'll see," Ryan said. "He's a tough kid, I'm just telling you. The average guy, there's no way he plays. But Jim Leonhard's not an average guy." If Leonhard can't play Sunday, Eric Smith would start in his place opposite Kerry Rhodes. Smith, who leads the team with 13 special teams tackles, has started 10 games and has four interceptions in three-plus seasons with the Jets. "It's a good opportunity to get out and play and get some more reps on the field," Smith said. "Hopefully we get Jim back, but if not, I'm going to be ready to play."
Analysis: Leonhard was injured during Maurice Jones-Drew's 33-yard touchdown run early in the first quarter of New York's 24-22 loss to Jacksonville on Sunday. He left briefly before returning with a cast on the hand, but was unable to handle his usual punt return duties. Leonhard is third on the team with 58 tackles, and has one interception and 1 1/2 sacks. He also makes the defensive calls, a duty that would fall to linebacker David Harris in Leonhard's absence. "If there's any way possible of him playing, I wouldn't be shocked," Ryan said. "But right now with him in a sling or a cast or three screws in his thumb, it wouldn't look good for the common person." Leonhard is a low-end Fantasy DB when healthy. Smith is merely a stopgap Fantasy option in larger IDP leagues. New York have a tough matchup this week in New England, so even if Leonhard was healthy, the Jets DST would still be a risky start.
News: Jets safety Jim Leonhard is having surgery on his broken right thumb, and coach Rex Ryan is uncertain how long he might be sidelined. Ryan said Leonhard is having surgery Monday, adding "that doesn't sound good to me." He is unsure of the nature of the procedure, or whether Leonhard would be sidelined this weekend or longer. Leonhard was injured early in the first quarter on Maurice Jones-Drew's 33-yard touchdown run in the Jets' 24-22 loss to Jacksonville on Sunday. Leonhard left the field and went into the locker room to have the thumb placed in a cast. He came back into the game on defense, but wasn't able to field punts as he normally does.
Analysis: This surely won't help the Jets in Week 11 when they play at the Patriots. Consider other options before going with them in their matchup at New England. Consider the Packers DST (home vs. San Francisco) or Jaguars DST (home vs. Buffalo) instead.
News: The Jets DST allowed 24 points and 347 yards to the Jaguars in a Week 10 loss. New York recovered a fumble and tallied two sacks.
Analysis: The Jets DST has been like Jekyll and Hyde this season, but they better get their game in shape if they don't want to get waxed by the Patriots on the road in Week 11. They will be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option at best for that matchup.
News: The Jets DST held Miami to 104 yards of total offense in Week 8 and made six sacks, but they allowed 30 points, which included three touchdowns that came when the defense wasn't on the field.
Analysis: After a shutout last week vs. Oakland, the Jets defense actually only gave up a touchdown and a field goal to the Miami offense on Sunday, but most leagues don't care where the points come from. The Jets are off in Week 9, so stash the DST away in all formats.
News: The Jets forced four turnovers and eventually quarterback JaMarcus Russell out of the game during a 38-0 rout of the Raiders in Week 7. The Raiders pulled Russell in the second quarter after he committed three turnovers in the first half against the Jets. Bruce Gradkowski replaced Russell, but didn't help Oakland find the end zone. The Jets had two interceptions and came away with three sacks -- all from Calvin Pace. Oakland managed 263 yards, including 144 through the air.
Analysis: The Jets really needed a strong effort against the Raiders after an embarrassing loss to Buffalo in Week 6 and they got it. The Jets DST has been a viable Fantasy option in 2009 thanks to defensive guru Rex Ryan taking over the coaching reigns. The Jets get a second crack at Miami in Week 8 after losing to the Dolphins, 31-27, in Week 5.
News: Jets nose tackle Kris Jenkins has been placed on season-ending injured reserve with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Coach Rex Ryan said the team would re-sign veteran defensive tackle Howard Green to make up for the loss of Jenkins, who was injured while making a tackle in the second quarter of the Jets' 16-13 overtime loss to Buffalo on Sunday. Jenkins, in his second season with New York, is considered a centerpiece of Ryan's aggressive defense, especially against the run.
Analysis: As if the Jets DST wasn't tanking in the eyes of Fantasy owners to begin with, this will make matters worse. Now the Jets might have problems stopping the run. Luckily, they play the Raiders in Week 7 and should be good for that matchup. But if you own this DST, start making alternate plans now, likely meaning carrying two DSTs, because they could begin to have some real problems without Jenkins.
News: The Jets, coming off a poor defensive performance against the Dolphins last week, rebounded against the Bills in Week 6, allowing 16 points on 296 yards. They had only one sack and one interception, though.
Analysis: The Jets DST didn't have many big plays against the Bills, but it showed it's still a respectable unit in Fantasy. Considering the Jets visit the Raiders in Week 7, you shouldn't even think about sitting the Jets DST.
News: Jets cornerbacks Lito Sheppard (right quadriceps) and Donald Strickland (right ankle) both returned to practice, but were limited. Neither have played since being injured in New York's win over New England in Week 2. Sheppard said he's ready to start Sunday against the Bills, and was prepared to play against the Dolphins but the team wanted to give him extra time to heal for this week. "I'm going to be ready 100 percent," Sheppard said. "When I came back, we wanted to be sure that I was going to be able to perform at the level I left off at and not have any setbacks." Elsewhere on the defense, defensive end Shaun Ellis (bruised knee) didn't practice.
Analysis: The return of Sheppard and Strickland only helps the Jets DST as one of the best Fantasy options for Week 6 against the struggling Bills. Ellis will hopefully be OK for the game, but the unit should get by without him against a very bad Buffalo offensive line. They're a No. 1 option well worth starting.
News: The New York Jets left Miami with their second straight loss on Monday night of Week 5. New York lost the game 31-27 in a wild one that saw the teams score five touchdowns in the 4th quarter alone. The Jets DST allowed 413 yards of offense to the wildcat-led Dolphins and their new QB Chad Henne. Henne connected with Ted Ginn Jr. for a 53-yard TD bomb that was the longest pass play against them all season. The Jets did not manage to sack Henne once in the game and didn't force a single turnover.
Analysis: New York came in with one of the league's best defenses but the Dolphins seemed to blow right through them time and time again on Monday night. They ran and passed without much problems and the Jets couldn't get to the quarterback or force any turnovers. That is two mediocre weeks in a row now for the Jets DST but we still like them as a solid Fantasy unit. They should have a bounce-back game Week 6 against the Buffalo Bills at home. They remain a unit worth starting.
News: The Jets' dominant defensive performance didn't continue against one of the best offensive teams in the league Week 4 at New Orleans. They allowed 24 points on 343 yards. They didn't record a sack or an interception, but they recovered one fumble.
Analysis: Even though the Jets DST wasn't a serious Fantasy asset Sunday, it wasn't awful either. Most defenses would have done much worse against an offense as dominant as the Saints'. The Jets DST remains too valuable to sit regardless of matchup, but it has a good one Week 5 at Miami.
News: Jets DBs Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes, who were probable on the injury report with hamstring and knee injuries, are both active for Week 4 at New Orleans.
Analysis: Looks like the Jets have the strength of their secondary back. The Jets DST has been one of the best units in Fantasy and is worth starting even with a tough matchup at New Orleans. Revis is considered by some people to be the best cornerback in football, which doesn't necessarily translate to success in Fantasy since quarterbacks tend to avoid him, but both he and Rhodes are worth starting as No. 2 DBs in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: New York Jets CB Darrelle Revis and safeties Kerry Rhodes and Jim Leonhard fully participated in practice on Friday and were listed as probable for Week 4 against the Saints. The Jets will surely need all three starters Sunday against Drew Brees and the Saints' top-ranked offense. CB Lito Sheppard (right quadriceps) and CB Donald Strickland (right ankle) have been ruled out of Week 4.
Analysis: It's a good sign that Revis, Rhodes and Leonhard have been listed as probable, and consider Revis and Rhodes good options for Week 4 against the Saints. Leonhard has minimal Fantasy value, and consider the Jets a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option against the Saints.
News: Jets cornerbacks Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland have been ruled out for the team's game at New Orleans. Sheppard, who has a strained right quadriceps, and Strickland, who has a high right ankle sprain, haven't practiced or played since being injured in New York's victory over New England in Week 2. "I was hoping we'd be able to get them back and they are doing a lot better," coach Rex Ryan said Friday. "They're running, but they're not ready to go 100 percent. We think we could probably play them right now if we had to, but I don't think it's fair to them."
Analysis: Dwight Lowery will again start in Sheppard's spot, opposite Darrelle Revis. Drew Coleman will likely see more action in Strickland's nickel role. You can count on the Saints targeting these backup defensive backs on Sunday, making the Jets DST a risky start. Consider the Bengals and 49ers DSTs, among others, before using the Jets in Week 4.
News: Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis and safety Kerry Rhodes were limited in practice with injuries that aren't expected to sideline them against the Saints on Sunday. Revis (hamstring) and Rhodes (knee) didn't appear to be noticeably hobbled during the 40-minute window of practice Wednesday the media are allowed to watch. Safety Jim Leonhard (knee) joined cornerbacks Lito Sheppard (right quadriceps) and Donald Strickland (right ankle) as members of the secondary who didn't practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: The Jets can ill afford to be short-handed in the secondary against New Orleans and its top-ranked offense Sunday. We'll keep tabs on this unit's status in the coming days, but expect the Jets DST to be a low-end No. 1 option since they should yield some points to the Saints' potent passing offense whether their stud players go or not.
News: The Jets DST put up some gaudy stats on Sunday in Week 3's 24-17 win over the Titans. Kerry Collins was intercepted twice by the Jets defense, with Eric Smith and David Harris picking him off. The team also recorded two Ryan Mouton fumbles on kick returns. Collins threw for 170 yards in the game and scored a touchdown. Chris Johnson was responsible for 97 of the Titans 127 rushing yards on the ground as well.
Analysis: Rex Ryan's defense has really showed up to start off the season, allowing only 33 points in three games. Despite a great start to the season, the Jets will be just a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 4 at New Orleans, one of the best offensive teams in the league. If you have a comparable option, look that way, but the Jets defense might be too hot for some to bench.
News: Jets cornerbacks Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland are out for the team's game against Tennessee. Neither Sheppard (right quadriceps) nor Strickland (right ankle) practiced this week. Sheppard will be replaced in the starting lineup by Dwight Lowery, who struggled last season as a rookie. He broke up Tom Brady's final pass Sunday to Joey Galloway to seal New York's 16-9 win over New England. Drew Coleman will likely step in for Strickland in nickel packages.
Analysis: None of these guys should be used in IDP play this week, and this doesn't knock down the value of the Jets DST that much, either. The unit is too talented and too aggressive to be considered suspect. Use them as a No. 1 option against the Titans in Week 3.
News: The Jets DST held the Patriots to nine points and 299 total yards in a Week 2 victory over New England. However, they only had one turnover, an interception, and didn't record a sack.
Analysis: In leagues that reward fewer points allowed, the Jets have been studs so far in 2009. Ok, so the turnovers weren't there on Sunday, but any time you can hold Tom Brady under a 50 percent completion percentage for the first time this season. In Week 3, the Jets will hot the Titans, who put up 30-plus points in Week 2. The Jets are making a name for themselves early this season, and are definitely worth a look in all formats.
News: The Jets held the Houston Texans to just 183 yards of total offense in Week 1. They forced two turnovers and sacked QB Matt Schaub twice while holding the Texans to just seven points in their home opener.
Analysis: The Texans held WR Andre Johnson to just four catches for 35 yards and Steve Slaton to 17 yards on the ground. They looked like an elite defensive unit and despite coming off a mediocre year a season ago could be on the verge of emerging into a must-start unit in Fantasy. It is just one game, though, and Fantasy owners should still be cautious about starting them against a tough Patriots offense in Week 2.
News: The NFL has issued a statement that Jets DE Shaun Ellis has been suspended without pay for the first game of the season and fined an additional $100,000 for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Ellis was arrested last fall for marijuana possession. "I wasn't surprised," Ellis said. "I knew that was a possibility. There's nothing I can do about it. I just have to be ready for Week 2."
Analysis: Ellis should still be considered a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues based on his production last year and what he should do in the Jets new system. The one-game absence shouldn't be a problem for his Fantasy value on Draft Day.
News: The NFL has suspended Jets linebacker Calvin Pace for four games without pay for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. Pace will miss New York's first four games of the season and will be eligible to return for the Jets' Monday night game at Miami in Week 5. In a statement issued by the team Thursday, Pace said the suspension is a result of taking an over-the-counter dietary supplement that he was unaware violated the NFL's policy. "I am responsible for what I put into my body and I should have paid closer attention to the League's guidelines," Pace said in a statement. "I regret that this has happened and apologize to my teammates, the entire Jets organization as well as the fans. Hopefully, this does not distract from our ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl."
Analysis: This will definitely hurt the Jets' pass rush for their first four games: at the Texans, vs. the Patriots, vs. the Titans and at the Saints. Three very aggressive passing teams. Nevertheless, the Jets should be one of the more aggressive defenses in the league, and losing Pace isn't the end of the world for them. They remain a No. 1 DST, although passing on them in drafts might be a little easier now.
News: The New York Jets signed safety Jim Leonhard on Tuesday, the second player new coach Rex Ryan has lured away from the Baltimore Ravens. The 26-year-old Leonhard had 69 regular-season tackles and returned an interception for a touchdown last season, his first with the Ravens. He signed a three-year deal with the Jets, joining linebacker Bart Scott as ex-Baltimore players who have followed their former defensive coordinator to New York. Leonhard, a hard hitter despite being just 5-foot-8, is expected to join Kerry Rhodes as the Jets' starting safeties in Mike Pettine's defense. "I've liked Jim since his days at Wisconsin and was excited when we were able to bring him to Baltimore last season," Ryan said. "He was everything I expected him to be in 2008 when he bailed us out at safety after we had some injuries."
Analysis: The Jets have also traded for CB Lito Sheppard and actually now boast a very potent secondary with him, Leonhard, Rhodes and CB Darrelle Revis. Their linebacker corps is also looking good with Calvin Pace and Bryan Thomas on the outside, Scott and David Harris on the inside and Vernon Gholston coming in on pass downs. Even their defensive line is shaping up with DT Kris Jenkins and DE Shaun Ellis. This is going to be a very aggressive, very solid unit assuming that they stay healthy, and Leon Washington returning kicks will only add value. Consider the Jets DST a very trendy No. 1 Fantasy DST well worth a middle- to late-round pick after the elite DSTs (Steelers, Giants, Titans) go off the board. They just might out-produce the Ravens in 2009.
News: The New York Jets have acquired two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard from the Philadelphia Eagles for undisclosed draft picks. The deal was completed Saturday after New York re-signed guard Brandon Moore earlier in the day and signed former Baltimore linebacker Bart Scott on Friday.
Analysis: Sheppard, who spent his first seven NFL seasons with the Eagles, will help shore up a Jets secondary that ranked 29th against the pass last year despite having Pro Bowl cornerback Darrelle Revis and playmaking safety Kerry Rhodes. Scott definitely will help this unit improve against the run, and will also be a voice in the locker room. We think this signing will really help the Jets out a bunch, especially considering Scott's experience working in Ryan's 3-4 defense (the Jets are already in a 3-4 format). Expect this unit to be drafted late as a low-end No. 1 unit with some really good upside.
News: The New York Times is among those reporting Friday that LB Bart Scott has signed a five-year deal with the team. Scott is expected to be the new leader of the Jets defense and likely man an inside linebacker spot. Scott will be reunited with Rex Ryan, who was his defensive coordinator in Baltimore and is now the head coach with the Jets.
Analysis: Scott definitely will help this unit improve against the run, and will also be a voice in the locker room. We think this signing will really help the Jets out a bunch, especially considering Scott's experience working in Ryan's 3-4 defense (the Jets are already in a 3-4 format). Expect this unit to be drafted late as a low-end No. 1 unit with some really good upside.
News: Shortly after becoming coach of the New York Jets on Monday, Rex Ryan made sure Mike Pettine came with him as his defensive coordinator. Pettine was on Baltimore's staff as a defensive assistant for seven years, including the last four as the Ravens' outside linebackers coach. Pettine and Ryan will bring a playmaking, high-energy style of defense to the Jets, but will let the players they have determine the overall style of the unit. That's a departure from the inflexible approach taken the last three years by Eric Mangini. "One thing about our system is it's player-driven," Pettine said. "We've always been of the mind-set of you fit your system to the players, not the players to the system. We're not going to come in with the playbook and say we're squeezing the New York Jets' personnel into the Baltimore Ravens' playbook."
Analysis: Pettine said Baltimore ran a base 3-4 defense, but refused to label it as such because of the frequent movement and rearranging of linebackers. He'll institute a similar philosophy with the Jets. Pettine inherits a defense that had a promising start in 2008 with 29 sacks in its first eight games, but just 12 in the last half of the season. The secondary might also need a makeover, ranking 29th overall against the pass despite having Pro Bowl cornerback Darrelle Revis and established playmaking safety Kerry Rhodes. The run defense, which ranked seventh overall, didn't allow a 100-yard rusher through its first 11 games. But nose tackle Kris Jenkins played through a herniated disk and New York allowed three players to go over 100 yards in the last five games. Expect this unit to be drafted late as a low-end No. 1 unit with some really good upside.
News: Ravens' defensive coordinator Rex Ryan was hired Monday as the New York Jets' coach, three weeks after the Jets fired Eric Mangini following a late-season collapse. Ryan takes over a team that started 8-3, but missed the playoffs with quarterback Brett Favre after losing four of its last five games. "It's been a dream of mine to become a head coach in the NFL," Ryan said in a statement. "Coming here to the New York Jets, where my father once coached and was part of the Super Bowl III staff, is fantastic. I look around at the facilities and the people they have in place and see a first-class organization. I'm just proud to be part of it."
Analysis: Ryan is a defensive-minded coach who will keep the team's 3-4 defense in tact. He'll also look to revive an offense that's struggled off and on for several seasons. Ultimately, the Jets defense should be much improved, especially with superb talent across the board in LBs Calvin Pace, David Harris, Bryan Thomas and Vernon Gholston as well as DE Shaun Ellis, DT Kris Jenkins, SS Kerry Rhodes and CB Darrelle Revis. Expect this unit to be drafted late as a low-end No. 1 unit with some really good upside.
News: A day after coming up short against the Dolphins, the Jets have fired head coach Eric Mangini. The defensive-minded coach had his players doing incredible things for the first two-thirds of the season before tanking late and failing to reach the postseason. At one point, the Jets were 8-3 and in the driver's seat for the AFC East crown, and they were the first team to beat the Titans this season.
Analysis: The Jets DST was a popular choice for much of the season, but like the Jets themselves, they took a nose dive late. Make no mistake, this unit has a lot of upside and potential with talented guys like LBs Calvin Pace, Bryan Thomas and David Harris, DT Kris Jenkins, CB Darrelle Revis and SS Kerry Rhodes. Assuming they hire a defensive coordinator or head coach with knowledge of the 3-4 scheme defense, this unit could be strong again in 2009.
News: The Jets DST allowed 24 points and 319 yards to the Dolphins in a Week 17 loss that ended their season. They recovered a fumble and had one sack.
Analysis: The Jets had a few monster weeks in 2008, but they finished with a disappointing stretch except for their score vs. the Bills. They weren't drafted in many leagues this year, and that isn't likely to change in 2009. They will probably be a No. 2 unit until they can prove otherwise.
News: The Jets DST allowed only 13 points to the Seahawks in a losing effort Week 16. They gave up 285 total yards with 175 through the air and 120 on the ground. The Jets' defense was able to fall on two Seattle fumbles.
Analysis: This wasn't the best performance we've seen out of the Jets DST as the conditions helped them out a lot. Consider them a solid start for Week 17 against the Dolphins. In the Jets' first meeting against the Dolphins the Jets allowed only 14 points to score.
News: The Jets have their defense to thank for Sunday's 31-27 victory over Buffalo. The Jets DST allowed 306 yards of offense to J.P. Losman and the Bills and Buffalo was leading with two minutes to play with the ball. That's when Losman attempted to pass instead of run down the clock and he was sacked by Abram Elam for a fumble on the 11-yard line. Jets defender Shaun Ellis picked it up and took it for a touchdown return that proved to be the game's final score. The Jets did force four turnovers in the game with one coming on the lost fumble and three more on interceptions from Losman. Calvin Pace had two sacks and the Jets sacked Losman three times total on the day.
Analysis: The Jets DST started off very slow and Losman actually looked good early in Week 15. They turned it around and picked him off three times and then won the game with a defensive score. The Jets DST had a strong start to the season but struggled recently. Still, with New York playing at Seattle in Week 16, they are a solid unit to start in the Fantasy playoffs.
News: The Jets defense, which allowed 31 points on 484 yards last week, allowed 24 points to the hosting 49ers on 375 yards in Week 14. It recorded two sacks and one interception and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Jets DST had a strong run in the middle of the season but has obviously struggled lately. Still, with matchups against the Bills and Seahawks coming up, it deserves a roster spot in Fantasy. Against the Bills in Week 9, it had five sacks and two interceptions, so keep it active.
News: The Jets allowed 484 yards of total offense and 31 points at home in Week 13 against Denver. They forced just one turnover and had no sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Broncos offense can be a productive unit and they certainly were in Week 13. Jay Cutler threw for over 350 yards and spread the ball around to several receivers. The Jets' found it tough to get off the field and were caught off guard in a bit of a trap game for them. Expect them to get back on track for Week 14 at San Francisco. Consider them an option for leagues of 12-plus teams. They will likely be playing with a chip on their shoulder.
News: The New York Jets did it. They beat previously unbeaten Tennessee on Sunday of Week 12, 34-13. It wasn't even close. The Jets DST allowed just 281 yards of offense although they forced just one turnover. The Jets sacked QB Kerry Collins just once in the game and Calvin Pace picked that up.
Analysis: New York beat the best team in football in Week 12 but didn't do that much as a far as Fantasy value goes for a DST. Still, the Jets have become a No. 1 Fantasy DST and a must-start in most weeks. The Jets are against a good offense in Denver in Week 13 but they should still be starting in most leagues.
News: New York Jets linebacker David Harris and safety Eric Smith will each miss their fourth straight game after they were ruled out Friday for the team's matchup at undefeated Tennessee because of injuries.
Analysis: Harris reportedly had surgery on his groin earlier this month after he was injured in the second quarter of the Jets' 28-24 victory over Kansas City on Oct. 26. Harris, who led the team with 52 tackles at the time he was injured, hasn't practiced the last several weeks and could miss another week. Like Harris, Smith hasn't played or practiced since suffering his third head injury in a four-game span. Smith, seen Friday in the locker room, was initially injured on his helmet-to-helmet hit on Arizona's Anquan Boldin in Week 4 that earned him a one-game suspension and fine. Smith suffered another concussion three weeks later in the Jets' 16-13 overtime loss at Oakland. He left the team's game at Buffalo two weeks later after taking a glancing blow to his head. Harris is a high-end Fantasy LB when healthy and Smith is a low-end option. The Jets DST is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 12.
News: The New York Jets needed overtime to defeat the New England Patriots on Thursday night in Foxboro, 34-31. The Jets DST didn't do a very good job in allowing the Patriots to rack up 511 yards and 31 points, including an 8-play, 62-yard TD drive with time expiring to send it into OT. New York forced just one turnover, a fumble by Ben Watson, and only sacked QB Matt Cassel three times. Kris Jenkins and C.J. Mosley each had a sack and Sione Pouha and David Bowens each had a half. The brightest spot for the Jets DST came on Leon Washington's 92-yard kick return for a touchdown in the 2nd quarter.
Analysis: The Jets have looked like a high-end Fantasy DST for most of the season and we wouldn't tear that down just because the Patriots did some damage against them on Thursday night. Remember, New York still won the game. They have become a No. 1 Fantasy DST and a must-start in most weeks. The Jets are at Tennessee in Week 12. The Titans have a great defense but very little offense and it should be a good matchup for the Jets DST to rebound with a solid effort.
News:Ty Law is back with the New York Jets -- just in time to play against the New England Patriots. The five-time Pro Bowl cornerback agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Jets on Monday after sitting out the first 10 weeks of the season as a free agent. "Things appear to be headed in that direction," a person familiar with the signing told The Associated Press.
Analysis: The NFL Network first reported the signing on its Web site Monday night. The Jets would not confirm the deal because it had not yet been completed, likely pending a physical. "This is going to be different playing Thursday night against the Patriots, matching up against my former team and the players I'm used to practicing against," Law told the NFL Network. Law spent the last two seasons with the Chiefs. He had 47 tackles and two interceptions in 16 games last season. Law has past his prime and appears to be added depth at this point. He has little to no Fantasy value in IDP leagues, but his addition does help bolster New York's defense. The Jets DST remains a viable Fantasy option.
News: The Jets defeated St. Louis 47-3 in Week 10. The Jets dominated the Rams in every phase of the game and that goes double for the Fantasy DST. New York limited the Rams to just 200 yards and three points on a 3rd quarter field goal and led 40-0 at halftime. New York forced five turnovers and the biggest was a 50-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown by Calvin Pace in the 1st quarter. Abram Elam forced the fumble and picked up a sack. Hank Poteat and Kerry Rhodes each intercepted St. Louis passes and Pace and Eric Barton combined for a sack.
Analysis: The Jets have looked like a high-end Fantasy DST for some time now. They have beat up on Buffalo and the Rams in successive weeks and have been major sources for turnovers while limited total yardage at the same time. They have become a No. 1 Fantasy DST and a must-start in most weeks. The Jets play at New England on Sunday night and should be starting across the board.
News: The Rams' starting running back in Week 10? Kenneth Darby, not Steven Jackson or even Antonio Pittman. Pittman will play, along with newly signed rusher Samkon Gado, but the Rams' running offense is expected to be a patchwork three-headed monster. That's going to put a lot of pressure on Marc Bulger to throw, and he's not a very good quarterback outdoors.
Analysis: Expect the Jets to register a bunch of sacks and interceptions and maybe a defensive score. They're a very attractive No. 1 DST for Week 10.
News: The Jets defeated Buffalo in western New York on Sunday of Week 9, 26-17. The Jets DST was able to limit Buffalo to just one offensive touchdown and scored on a defensive touchdown when Abram Elam took a Trent Edwards interception 92 yards back to the house for six. The Jets limited Buffalo to 292 yards and forced three turnovers. Aside from the pick for six, the Jets' Darrell Revis also picked off a pass in the end zone and the Jets forced an Edwards fumble. New York sacked Edwards four times with Kris Jenkins getting two of them.
Analysis: With two picks, a defensive TD and four sacks against the Bills, the Jets looked like a high-end Fantasy DST option. We only ranked them as a low-end No. 2 entering the game, however. With New York facing St. Louis at home in Week 10, we'll correct ourselves and make the Jets a high-end option worthy of starting against the Rams.
News: The Jets defeated the Chiefs 28-24 in Week 8 and allowed Kansas City to rack up 330 yards of offense. Kansas City was not forced into any turnovers by the Jets DST. New York sacked QB Tyler Thigpen four times with the sacks coming from Kerry Rhodes, Shaun Ellis, David Bowens and Drew Coleman.
Analysis: Fantasy owners probably expected more from the Jets DST against a weak opponent like the Chiefs but this is the second week in a row the defense couldn't dominate a mediocre team. It remains an inconsistent unit and against Buffalo in Week 9 should deserve to be sitting on the bench in most Fantasy leagues. If you can't do well against the Chiefs and Raiders, the Bills will blow them apart.
News: The Jets had a decent defensive performance at Oakland in Week 7, giving up 16 points on 344 yards. They recorded one sack.
Analysis: Fantasy owners probably expected more from the Jets DST against a weak opponent like the Raiders. It remains an inconsistent unit but has another outstanding matchup Week 8 against the Chiefs. Go ahead and keep it active.
News: The Jets' suddenly stingy defense is ranked third in the NFL against the run and is allowing just 69 yards rushing per game, a dramatic improvement from the last few seasons. "Wow, that's pretty good," LB Eric Barton said Monday. "I know that it's been a concentrated effort and guys have been taking it personal and trying to get it done, so it's a good feeling." Much of the credit has gone NT Kris Jenkins, who was acquired from Carolina in the offseason with the idea that he'd immediately improve the team's ability to stop the run. New York ranked 29th in the league in run defense, allowing 134.8 yards rushing per game last season.
Analysis: The Jets DST is the kind you can trust to perform well in the right matchups, but you wouldn't want to start it on an every-week basis. It once again looks like a solid fill-in option Week 7 at Oakland, though, largely because of its ability to stop the run. Jenkins himself doesn't do enough statistically to merit a roster spot in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: The Jets defense held the Bengals and backup quarterback Ryan Fitzgerald to 14 points on 171 yards Week 6 in New York. It recorded five sacks and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Jets DST is the kind you can trust to perform well in the right matchups, but you wouldn't want to start it on an every-week basis. It once again looks like a solid fill-in option Week 7 at Oakland, though.
News: It's never good when an angry 0-5 team comes to play at your home turf, but that's what the Jets will deal with in Week 6 when the Bengals come to The Big Apple. Cincinnati's run offense ranks 30th in the league and is on the verge of a change, breaking away from the ineffective Chris Perry and going with the newly signed Cedric Benson. The passing game has been a huge disappointment for the Bengals, who aren't getting much production from Chad Johnson. Carson Palmer has thrown three touchdowns -- all to T.J. Houshmandzadeh -- with four interceptions and has yet to have a 300-yard game. The Bengals' pass offense ranks 27th.
Analysis: With the Bengals' offense looking rough, this is a good week to call the Jets DST a quality sleeper unit, even though they rank 31st vs. the pass, mostly the result of Arizona's 472-yard passing game in Week 4. If your main DST is on bye, or if you're platooning DST units, consider the Jets a good option for Week 6.
News: The Jets defense were able to shut out the Cardinals for a half Week 4, but then played a soft defense in the second half and Arizona put up 35 points. New York still managed to win the game 56-35. The Cardinals rolled up 468 total yards, including 426 through the air. The Jets got five sacks and three interceptions. Darrelle Revis had a pair of interceptions, including one he returned 32 yards for a score. The Jets defense forced seven turnovers, including four fumbles.
Analysis: The Jets getting seven turnovers was great, but they have now allowed 83 points in the last two games. They continue to get mixed results under Eric Mangini and the Jets DST is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option. New York is off Week 5 and don't play again until Week 6 against the Bengals.
News: Even with LaDainian Tomlinson at less than 100 percent because of a toe injury, the Jets defense had a hard time stopping the Chargers Week 3. San Diego put 48 points on the scoreboard while posting 357 yards, including 67 on the ground from Tomlinson. He scored twice while QB Philip Rivers threw three touchdowns. Even the Chargers defense scored. The Jets defense started the game on the right foot by David Barrett returning a Rivers' interception for a touchdown in the first quarter. But it was all downhill after that. The Jets defense had no sacks in the 48-29 loss.
Analysis: The Jets defense allowed just 33 points in their first two games, but were taken to the shed Week 3 by a team that desperately needed a win. It could get ugly again in Week 4 as the Cardinals come to town. Arizona has a good passing offense and can also run the ball. The Jets DST is not a recommended Fantasy option.
News: The Jets defense held the Patriots to just one touchdown Week 2 -- a 1-yard run by Sammy Morris -- but K Stephen Gostkowski booted four field goals as New England won 19-10. The Patriots managed 260 yards of offense, including just 104 on the ground. The Jets had two sacks while not forcing a turnover.
Analysis: The Jets defense has allowed just 33 points through two games and haven't looked half bad in the early season. If they can continue to string together solid outings, they might develop into much more than a No. 2 Fantasy DST. The Jets play the Chargers Week 3.
News:Darrelle Revis barely even heard of Matt Cassel before this week. "The only thing I know is his general information," the New York Jets cornerback said. "He went to USC. I haven't looked at film of him yet." Well, there isn't much to find of the man taking over for the injured Tom Brady. Before leading the New England Patriots to a 17-10 win over Kansas City last week, Cassel had thrown just 39 passes in his three NFL seasons. Brady has been a big key to their success this decade, and the Patriots don't expect to change things despite the reigning league MVP being lost for the season with a knee injury. Instead of the juicy matchup of Brett Favre vs. Brady in the Jets' home opener, Cassel will make his first NFL start. And he'll have to do it against an improved defense that refuses to take the Patriots lightly without Brady. "On offense, they're like a well-oiled machine," defensive end Kenyon Coleman said. "I think it's a setup if you think it's going to be any different just because Cassel's in the game."
Analysis: Cassel already showed he can run the offense, going 13-of-18 for 152 yards, including a 10-yard TD pass to Randy Moss against Kansas City. "Any day, anyone can have a Pro Bowl day," defensive end Shaun Ellis said. "We are a confident bunch anyway, with or without Brady." That's good news, considering the Jets are going against a team that has beaten them in 10 of the last 11 meetings, including the last seven at the Meadowlands. The Jets have insisted all week that New England is still formidable even without Brady. And that starts at the top with Bill Belichick. "The thing about Bill, don't ever bet against him," Favre said. "I think he's a great schemer." The Jets defense allowed 14 points, had four sacks and one interception in a Week 1 win against Miami. They will need the same kind of effort Week 2, but we still only like the Jets DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Jets DST had four sacks and one interception in Week 1 at Miami. Leon Washington had one kickoff return for 10 yards and five punt returns for 64 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST is average at best, but Washington is a solid return option. Still, the Jets have a tough matchup in Week 2 against New England even if Tom Brady (knee) doesn't play. Consider the Jets a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Jets starting right CB Justin Miller suffered a dislocated toe on his left foot and is expected to be sidelined one to three weeks, meaning he could miss the opener at Miami on Sept. 7. Miller, who missed most of last season with a knee injury and was having a solid camp, was hurt in the second quarter of the third preseason game against the Giants while making a tackle on Giants RB Brandon Jacobs. He limped off the field and was carted into the locker room. He didn't return. The injury may pave the way for rookie Dwight Lowery, a fourth-round pick, to crack the starting lineup. David Barrett, who has been working at safety for the past two weeks and played there an extended amount of time against the Giants, is also a possibility, as is versatile veteran Hank Poteat, who started nine games last season. Darrelle Revis is the starter at left cornerback.
Analysis: Miller has minimal Fantasy value in IDP leagues even when healthy. Keep an eye on his replacement, but the Jets DST is a low-end Fantasy option at this time.
News: The Jets DST totaled eight sacks, an interception and a forced fumble in their third preseason game vs. the Giants. LB Calvin Pace led the way with two sacks and LB David Harris had another. CB Drew Coleman had a sack and an interception. The Jets have 13 sacks and five interceptions through three preseason games.
Analysis: The addition of LBs Calvin Pace and rookie Vernon Gholston and DT Kris Jenkins joining with LBs David Harris, Bryan Thomas and DBs Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes make the Jets an intriguing option this preseason. Their play thus far has been above the board, and when you throw in KR Leon Washington, they might have some sleeper value to them. In deeper leagues, eyeball the Jets as a No. 2 DST worth a late-round choice.
News: Jets DB Darrelle Revis is really only playing in his first NFL training camp despite it being his sophomore season in the league because of a 20-day holdout last season. Because it is his first real camp, he's hit a little wall. "He's a rookie right now to this training camp thing," safety Kerry Rhodes said with a chuckle. "He's hitting a little wall. It's to be expected since it's his first one. He's a pro. He's competitive. He's going to be OK." Revis, who was thought to have punt returning ability when drafted two years ago, worked out with the special teams but dropped two Thursday and has looked tentative in camp.
Analysis: Revis finished last season second on the team in tackles with 87 (74 solo) and also added three interceptions. He did so well that he even earned this praise from coach Eric Mangini: "You never know what you're going to get from your freshman year to your sophomore year, especially if a guy has got a ton of success. And Darrelle really did have a nice season last year for such a young guy. And he's responded in ways, as a coach, you're always excited to see." If he can establish himself as a punt returner, too, that only increases his and the Jets DST values. Look for Revis to become a standout DB in IDP leagues. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option in 2008 and hopefully his interception total will increase.
News: With the No. 6 pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the New York Jets selected DE/OLB Vernon Gholston. Gholston was a monster in college, and the perception in the pros is that he will be able to line up all over the place and blitz the passer. Moreover, Gholston will now take on Dolphins OT Jake Long twice a year, and Gholston dominated Long in college.
Analysis: This puts the icing on the cake on an offseason full of changes for the Jets, who now can pair Gholston with OLB Calvin Pace and ILB David Harris to form a heck of a linebacker corps. The team also added DT Kris Jenkins to plug rush lanes to help those linebackers, and CB Darrelle Revis and SS Kerry Rhodes will also return. The Jets are now considered a deep-end sleeper in 2008 Fantasy play; figure them to be a good No. 2 DST option.
News: The Broncos acquired defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson from the Jets on Thursday for a conditional pick in the 2009 draft. Robertson, the fourth overall pick in the 2003 draft from Kentucky, spent five inconsistent seasons with the Jets. He often seemed out of position in New York's 3-4 alignment.
Analysis: The Jets no longer needed Robertson after trading for DT Kris Jenkins earlier this offseason. A much-changed defense added OLB Calvin Pace along with Jenkins and should be a smidge better than the run-leaky D last season. Nevertheless, they're still expected to be a No. 2 DST even with the expected progress of LB David Harris and CB Darrelle Revis, along with the newly re-signed Kerry Rhodes at safety.
News: The Carolina Panthers traded three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kris Jenkins to the New York Jets on Friday for third- and fifth-round draft picks. The Jets then came to terms with Jenkins on a new five-year contract worth $35 million, including $20 million in guaranteed money. Jenkins played in all 16 games last season, but had only 2 1/2 sacks.
Analysis: The Jets managed two defensive touchdowns to go with 15 interceptions, 29 sacks, six fumble recoveries and 10 forced fumbles in 2007. They have some solid defenders in David Harris, Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes, but could use some help this offseason. They're no better than a No. 2 unit even with Jenkins on board.
News: Jets RB Leon Washington was the best player for the Jets DST and ST units in 2007. Washington led the team in punt returns (9.2 yards per return) and kickoff returns (27.5-yard average and three touchdowns). The Jets still managed two other defensive touchdowns to go with 15 interceptions, 29 sacks, six fumble recoveries and 10 forced fumbles. The Jets D and DST could be in line for several changes next year if LBs Victor Hobson and Jonathan Vilma, DB Andre Dyson and DB Erik Coleman are released as part of salary cap moves.
Analysis: The Jets ST unit is solid because of Washington and should be considered a No. 1 option in 2008, and Washington will help the DST. The Jets D has some solid defenders in David Harris, Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes but could use some help this offseason.
News: The Jets held the Chiefs to 10 points and 219 yards in a Week 17 overtime win. They did not force any turnovers, but added three sacks.
Analysis: The Jets defense wasn't as much to credit for the lack of offense for the Chiefs as the Chiefs offense was. They were a banged up unit for most of the season, but they have some promise. They'll have to get players like Jonathan Vilma healthy, though, and that's no certainty.
News: The Jets defense put up a valiant effort Week 16 against the Titans, but the offense could not pull through, losing 10-6. The Jets allowed just 273 total yards and even forced two turnovers -- one interception and one fumble. They also brought down QB Vince Young three times.
Analysis: The Jets came into Week 16 with one of the worst defenses in the NFL, but actually put forth a nice effort. Don't get too excited. They will face one of the worst offenses in the NFL Week 17 in the Chiefs, but you would be hard pressed to start the Jets DST.
News: The Jets DST totaled one sack, one interception and a blocked punt returned for a touchdown in the team's Week 15 game at New England. That's not such a bad effort, nor is holding the Patriots' pass offense, led by Tom Brady, to 140 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST is nothing more than a low-end desperation option in Week 16 when the Jets play at the Titans.
News: The Jets allowed 24 points on 337 yards Week 14 against the Browns, recording zero sacks and one interception. Their special teams gained 113 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST is one of the least desirable in football, and it has the least desirable matchup in Fantasy for Week 15 at New England. Leave it on waivers.
News: The New York Jets DST held the Dolphins to only 13 points and 187 yards and forced five turnovers in a 40-13 rout in Week 13. They grabbed three interceptions, two fumble recoveries and sacked John Beck three times.
Analysis: The Jets were a nice sleeper DST pick coming into Week 13 and proved to be worthy of that selection as they destroyed the Dolphins in all facets of the game. They might be worth starting again in Week 14 against the Browns if the weather is less than stellar.
News: The Jets defense did a semi-effective job limiting the mighty Cowboys on the road in Week 12, but it still surrendered 34 points on 344 yards. Jets defenders took QB Tony Romo down twice and intercepted him once. Jets special-teamers picked up 152 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST entered the game ranked 26th in total defense and usual doesn't justify a start in Fantasy. However, it visits the hapless Dolphins in Week 13, giving it a chance to feast on rookie QB John Beck. Consider it a sleeper in deeper leagues for the occasion.
News: The Jets DST has a tough matchup at Dallas on Thanksgiving Day in Week 12. The Cowboys have the second-best offense in the NFL, scoring 32.4 points per game.
Analysis: The Jets DST is ranked 26th in total defense and we don't recommend starting this unit in Week 12.
News: Not only did the Jets pull out an upset victory against the Steelers in Week 11, they did it in an impressive fashion. The defense played a huge role by limiting QB Ben Roethlisberger to one touchdown and holding RB Willie Parker to 52 yards. The Jets also sack Roethlisberger seven times, picked off a pass and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Jets came into Week 11 with one of the worst defenses in the NFL and were up against one of the best offenses. You couldn't tell by their stellar performance. The Jets will get another stingy test in Week 12 against the Cowboys. It is not recommended that you start the Jets DST at this juncture.
News: The Jets DST will host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday in Week 9. The Steelers are ranked fifth in total offense, including the second-ranked rushing unit.
Analysis: The Jets DST is ranked 30th in total defense (23rd against the pass and last in the NFL against the run). Don't start this unit in what should be a big game for RB Willie Parker.
News: The Jets allowed 23 points and 431 yards of total offense in a Week 9 overtime loss vs. Washington. They had a sack and an interception and Leon Washington returned the opening kickoff 86 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The kickoff return helped to offset much of the damage done, but this was an overall lazy performance by a defense that at 1-8 appears to be giving up on the season. Keep the Jets defense on the waiver wire in Week 10 when they are on a bye. In Week 11, they will be over-matched against the Steelers.
News: The Jets DST will host the Washington Redskins' 28th-ranked offense Sunday. The Redskins have allowed 12 sacks this season.
Analysis: The Jets DST ranks 29th in total defense, including 26th against the pass and 27th against the run. They have only eight sacks this season and they really aren't worth starting in most Fantasy formats, despite the matchup.
News: The Jets defense didn't exactly dominate in a battle of the bums Week 8 against the Bills. It allowed 13 points on 347 yards, registering only one sack and one interception. The Jets special teams, meanwhile, gained only 61 yards.
Analysis: The Jets defense already ranked near the bottom of the league before losing its stud middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma for the season. You don't want it in Fantasy. The Jets host the Redskins in Week 9.
News: Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma was placed on injured reserve Saturday with a knee injury, ending the one-time Pro Bowler's season after seven games. Vilma, who was hurt in New York's loss at Cincinnati last Sunday, missed practice all week and was listed as out on the team's injury report Friday. "This is a not a career-threatening injury and the doctors expect a full recovery," said Mitch Frankel, one of Vilma's representatives. The loss of one of their defensive captains is the latest disappointing development in what has become a season full of them as the Jets have struggled to a 1-6 start. "I am disappointed that my season ended prematurely," Vilma said in a statement. "I was looking forward to playing the rest of the season and helping the team get back on track. I now look forward to supporting my teammates for the rest of the 2007 season and returning to the field with them in 2008."
Analysis: The Jets would not announce the exact nature of the injury or which knee is affected. The linebacker underwent several tests during the week and sought multiple medical opinions before deciding to end his season. He's still mulling his options regarding treatment. Since being chosen in the first round of the 2004 draft, Vilma has played in every Jets game and started all but two. He established himself as one of the best playmaking linebackers in the league and was selected for the Pro Bowl following his second season in 2005 after leading the league with 187 tackles. The last two seasons have been a different story for Vilma, who has struggled along with a number of other players to be as effective in coach Eric Mangini's 3-4 defensive scheme. He was fifth on the team with 39 tackles. The Jets defense already ranks near the bottom of the league with Vilma active, so without him, it might get ugly Week 8 against the Bills and the rest of the season. Try to avoid the Jets DST if possible.
News: Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma will miss New York's game against Buffalo on Sunday with a knee injury. Vilma, who missed practice all week, was listed as out on the team's injury report Friday and it's uncertain how long the former Pro Bowl linebacker will be sidelined. He was injured sometime during the Jets' loss at Cincinnati last Sunday, when he was removed from the game for a stretch in the second half. The Jets have remained typically tightlipped about the injury, but coach Eric Mangini provided some hope in his press conference earlier in the day. "You don't rule anybody out in terms of injuries," Mangini said. "It's too different person by person. It's something that if you go one way, a lot of time, the opposite happens. So we always go through the full process, the full level of rehab."
Analysis: Apparently the process ended sometime Friday when it was determined Vilma wasn't going to be able to play. Published reports have speculated the injury could be serious and potentially require season-ending surgery, but Mangini has been evasive when asked if that's a possibility. Since being chosen in the first round in the 2004 draft, Vilma has played in every Jets game and started all but two. After establishing himself as one of the best playmaking linebackers in the league during his first two seasons, Vilma has struggled to be as effective in Mangini's 3-4 defensive scheme. He's fifth on the team with 39 tackles. The Jets defense already ranks near the bottom of the league with Vilma active, so without him, it might get ugly Week 8 against the Bills, despite Buffalo being a poor offensive team. Try to avoid the Jets DST if possible.
News: New York Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma missed practice Wednesday with a knee injury and underwent tests to determine how long it might keep him sidelined. Coach Eric Mangini said Vilma was injured during the Jets' 38-31 loss at Cincinnati on Sunday, but didn't specify when it occurred or to which knee. "We're going to get some more tests done here (Wednesday)," Mangini said. "I'll update you on his status or you'll be updated on his status through the injury report." The Pro Bowl linebacker spent part of the second half of last week's game on the bench and Mangini said Monday that Vilma, who had only three tackles, was "dramatically affected" by an unspecified injury. During his weekly spot Tuesday on a sports radio station, Vilma said it was "a coach's decision" and wasn't due to any injury.
Analysis: Vilma has missed few snaps during his three-plus seasons and is known for playing through pain the way Laveranues Coles and Chad Pennington are, so it's noticeable whenever he's not on the field. After establishing himself as one of the best playmaking linebackers in the league during his first two seasons, Vilma has struggled to be as effective in Mangini's 3-4 defensive scheme. He's a disappointing fifth on the team with 39 tackles, including 26 solo. The Jets defense already ranks near the bottom of the league with Vilma active, so without him, it might get ugly Week 8 against the Bills, despite Buffalo being a poor offensive team. Try to avoid the Jets DST if possible.
News: The Jets DST had one sack and an interception Sunday against the Bengals. Jerricho Cotchery had one kickoff return for 32 yards, and Leon Washington had five kickoff returns for a 23.6-yard average.
Analysis: The Jets DST should only be used in Week 8 against Buffalo if needed because the unit only does well on special teams and nothing else.
News: The Jets DST will travel to face Cincinnati's high-powered passing offense in Week 7. The Bengals rank fourth in total offense, including second through the air and 28th on the ground.
Analysis: The Jets DST ranks 28th in total defense, including 27th against the pass and 23rd against the run. This unit is not a recommended Fantasy option in most leagues.
News: The Jets DST had three sacks and one interception Sunday against the Eagles. Leon Washington had three kickoff returns for a 37.3-yard average and one punt return for 15 yards.
Analysis: The Jets DST should not be used in Week 7 against the Bengals. Keep them reserved unless absolutely necessary.
News: The New York Jets put lots of pressure on Eli Manning last weekend and almost sacked him a few times. That's been the problem this season. Almost hasn't been cutting it. The Jets have a grand total of three sacks in five games, and only Carolina (two) and New Orleans (one) have less. "You'd obviously like to have more," defensive end Eric Hicks said Thursday. "There are other things you can do to the quarterback than the actual word 'sack' to get him off his rhythm and get his timing messed up. We put stock in it in that we want to get more, but we're not going to live and die with it."
Analysis: The Jets are 1-4 and ranked 28th in total defense heading into this weekend's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. They held Manning to 22 yards passing in the first half last week, but the Giants made adjustments at halftime and finished with 374 total yards, including 164 passing in the last two quarters. "Sacks are a fickle thing," Hicks said. "They come in bunches in the NFL and that's how it historically is. They come in bunches for players and they come in bunches for teams. If you just stay the course and you do your technique and what your game plan is, they're going to come. Those hits are going to turn into sacks and strips and things of that nature." The Giants sacked Eagles QB Donovan McNabb a total of 12 times in Week 4, but don't expect the same production from the Jets. They are a less than desireable Fantasy DST heading into Week 6.
News: The Jets returned a fumble and a kickoff for touchdowns in Week 5 at the N.Y. Giants. DB Kerry Rhodes returned a Brandon Jacobs 11-yards for a score and Leon Washington ran back a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown. LB Jonathan Vilma had an interception, but the Jets did not have a sack. They allowed 35 points and 374 yards of offense.
Analysis: Despite the fact that the Jets scored two touchdowns, the defense looked pretty bad in the second half of the game and you can't count on them to score you touchdowns every week. In Week 6 vs. Philadelphia, we don't recommend using the Jets defensive unit.
News: The Jets "travel" to face the Giants at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sunday. The Giants have the 19th-best offense in the NFL, and they are average in both the run and the pass.
Analysis: The Jets DST has not been a good one this season. They rank 28th overall in total defense (27th against the pass and 16th against the run). We don't recommend starting them for this "road" game.
News: The Jets allowed 17 points and 152 yards of total offense in Week 4 at Buffalo. DB Andre Dyson had the team's only interception and LB Jonathan Vilma forced a fumble. It was recovered by LB Victor Hobson.
Analysis: They came into the game ranked 28th in the NFL in total defense, as well as 28th in the passing game and 20th in rushing defense. They stepped up their performance a bit in the game vs. Buffalo, but that's not a good offense they were facing. In Week 5 vs. the Giants, the test will be a little tougher. Consider them only in larger leagues as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Jets DST currently ranks 28th in the NFL in total defense, as well as 28th in the passing game and 20th in rushing defense. They will travel to Buffalo in Week 4.
Analysis: The Jets DST has just one interception, one sack and no forced fumbles or fumble recoveries. The Bills aren't great offensively though, so this could be the one week when the Jets come through.
News: The New York Jets defense had a solid first three quarters against the Miami Dolphins in the Jets' 31-28 win Week 3, but then gave up 15 points and a bunch of yards in the fourth quarter. They did have the only turnover of the game when they picked off Trent Green in the third quarter.
Analysis: The Jets DST isn't one of the league's better units, but they might be a nice Week 4 bye-week replacment as they play the Buffalo Bills, who are rather inept on offense, and that's being kind.
News: The Jets placed Pro Bowl kick returner-cornerback Justin Miller on injured reserve Tuesday because of a knee injury. The speedy Miller, who led the NFL last season in yards per kickoff return, injured his right knee during a 22-yard return early in the second quarter of New York's 20-13 loss at Baltimore on Sunday. He stayed on the turf for several minutes before being helped off the field and taken to the locker room. The nature and severity of the injury was not immediately known. The Jets were off Tuesday, and coach Eric Mangini is extremely tightlipped when it comes to injuries.
Analysis: The Jets DST gets a little worse with this news. As it stood before this injury, the Jets weren't great defensively and weren't a Fantasy asset to begin with. They are at best a desperation pick for Week 3 Fantasy action when they host the Dolphins.
News: The Jets DST gave up 303 yards to the Ravens in Baltimore's 20-13 win in Week 2 and didn't record a sack, interception or a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Jets are one of the lower-tier DSTs in the NFL, but might be worth a look at vs. Miami in Week 3 if your current DSTs have poor matchups.
News: The Jets DST had no sacks or turnovers and allowed 38 points against the Patriots on Sunday. Justin Miller also had one kickoff return for 26 yards, and Leon Washington had five kickoff returns for a 22.8 average.
Analysis: The Jets DST, D and ST is not worth using in Week 2 against Baltimore.
News: Jonathan Vilma laughs at the notion that the New York Jets might be catching a break. Just because the New England Patriots might not have some key players in the season opener Sunday, the Jets linebacker knows that doesn't mean things will be any easier for New York. "You want to play them when they are at their best," Vilma said Thursday. "You want to play every opponent at their best." Patriots QB Tom Brady missed a portion of practice Thursday because of a chronic right shoulder injury, but the Jets know he'll likely be leading New England's offense Sunday. "I have a lot of respect," Vilma said of Brady. "He's always done a great job against us. He's always had good games."
Analysis: In the 12 games he's started against the Jets, Brady is 10-2 and has thrown 14 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He's 6-0 against New York at the Meadowlands, the site of Sunday's game. Brady needs three touchdowns to reach 150 for his career, and has posted an impressive 99.6 passer rating on the road. The game could be short on fun for the Jets if Brady gets full use from his new stable of wide receivers. Besides Randy Moss, the Patriots added Donte' Stallworth, Wes Welker and Kelley Washington to go along with Jabar Gaffney. The Jets don't appear to have a favorable matchup Sunday and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy DST at best.
News: The Jets signed first-round pick Darrelle Revis on Wednesday night, ending the touted cornerback's lengthy holdout. Revis, selected 14th overall after New York traded up to draft him, missed 22 practices and the team's preseason opener last Friday against Atlanta since training camp started July 27. "We're glad it's over," general manager Mike Tannenbaum said. Tannenbaum said Revis had already received his playbook and would participate in the team's walkthrough Thursday. It was uncertain if coach Eric Mangini would play Revis in the Jets' game against Minnesota on Friday night. "He'll play when Eric feels he's ready," Tannenbaum said.
Analysis: The Jets expect Revis to compete for a starting job at cornerback, once he gets up to speed with the defense. Revis was considered one of the best overall cornerbacks in the draft, and had an outstanding college career at Pittsburgh, finishing with 129 tackles and eight interceptions. In time, he will help the Jets keep up their good work against the pass, but for this season, the Jets DST remains a No. 2/bye-week replacement option.
News: Linebacker David Harris, the Jets' second-round pick, signed with New York on Wednesday. The 6-foot-2, 243 pounder, the 47th overall pick in last April's draft, played at Michigan. He finished his career with 196 tackles, four sacks, one interception, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery and was a semifinalist for the Butkus award given to the nation's top linebacker.
Analysis: He is expected to compete for a spot at inside linebacker in the Jets' 3-4 defense. Count on the Jets DST to be a usable bye-week replacement when they face a weak offense in 2007.
News: The New York Jets placed linebacker Matt Chatham on the physically-unable-to-perform list Monday. The team also waived safety Leonard Peters.
Analysis: The move means Chatham will practice with the Jets when training camp opens Friday, but the two could be added to the active roster at any time. Neither player has much of an impact on the overall Fantasy appeal of the Jets DST, which is rather middle of the road.
News: The Jets moved up in the 2007 draft and took Pitt CB Darrelle Revis 14th overall. Revis is considered to be the best cornerback in the draft because he can not only match up against most any receiver (he's 6-foot with 4.5 speed) but he's also versatile enough to play safety and return punts. He's a physical corner who should be a fixture for the Jets for a long time.
Analysis: Expect Revis to compete for a starting job and be at worst their nickel back in 2007. Aside from padding their DE depth this offseason with the signings of Kenyon Coleman, Bobby Hamilton and Andre Wadsworth, Revis' signing is the most exciting news for Gang Green. Expect the Jets DST to be a usable bye-week replacement when they face a weak offense in 2007.
News: The New York Post reports that despite rumors of Jonathan Vilma getting traded, Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum plans on having Vilma on the team for the long haul. "Jon is on the team. I'm glad he's here," Tannenbaum said. "I'm not going to comment on any specific rumor or anything, but I'm happy he's here. I know that those rumors have been out there. We expect him to be here. He's a good player."
Analysis: Vilma had a hard time struggling to the 3-4 scheme in New York last season and is more of a 4-3 type of linebacker (he excelled in the 4-3 in college and in his first few years with the Jets). Consider the Jets at best a bye-week DST replacement in 2007, and Vilma a top-end No. 2 Fantasy linebacker.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that the Jets and free-agent DE David Bowens have agreed to a three-year deal. The seventh-year veteran will provide depth -- and possibly start -- for the Jets along their defensive line.
Analysis: The Jets have done a nice job adding depth of late, also signing linemen Michael Haynes, Kenyon Coleman, Bobby Hamilton and Andre Wadsworth. These additions boost their potential to slow down the run, which was a huge problem for them last season. Expect the Jets DST to be a usable bye-week replacement when they face a weak offense in 2007.
News: The Jets have announced the signing of DE Andre Wadsworth. Wadsworth was the third overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft, after Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf. Wadsworth, 29, has eight sacks in three NFL seasons.
Analysis: This is a surprising signing since Wadsworth has been out of the league for a while. Still, the Jets may see something in him that can make him part of their defensive line rotation in the 3-4 scheme. The Jets remain a No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: The Jets announced the re-signing of DE Bobby Hamilton and the signing of DE Kenyon Coleman, formerly of the Cowboys.
Analysis: Both players will help the depth of the team's defensive line, but neither one helps the Jets DST become any more attractive, nor are they worth using in IDP play.
News: The N.Y. Jets allowed just three points and 209 yards of offense in Week 17 vs. Oakland. They forced three turnovers in the game and picked up two sacks.
Analysis: The Jets defense emerged as a solid Fantasy unit as the season went on in 2006. They will be worth a late round pick in leagues of 10-plus teams in 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: The New York Jets DST allowed just 10 points and 253 total net yards in Week 16 at Miami. The Jets were able to roll up three sacks, no interceptions and no fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Jets DST might be a solid option for Fantasy owners who have their championship game in Week 17, as they face the Raiders who have been absymal on offense this season.
News: The New York Jets have declared RB Derrick Blaylock, 3QB Kellen Clemens, OL Na'Shan Goddard, FB James Hodgins, RB Cedric Houston (calf), DL Rashad Moore (hand), LB Anthony Schlegel (illness) and FS Jamie Thompson (ankle) inactive for Week 16 at Miami.
Analysis: Only Houston has any Fantasy appeal heading into Week 17 against Oakland if he is healthy. None of the others are worth using against the Raiders or in keeper leagues heading into the 2007 season.
News: Victor Hobson and Bryan Thomas are spending a lot more time in opponents' backfields these days, making quarterbacks antsy when they play the New York Jets. The Jets have 12 sacks in their last four games, including 4 1/2 by Thomas and three by Hobson. The pass rush has come on during the team's playoff push after being highly criticized earlier in the season for giving quarterbacks too much time to make plays. Thomas leads the Jets with 7 1/2 sacks.
Analysis: Consider the Jets a No. 2 DST for Week 16 against Miami. Use Hobson and Thomas in leagues where needed.
News: The Jets DST had three sacks and an interception against the Vikings. LB Victor Hobson had eight tackles and a sack. LB Eric Barton had four tackles and a sack. DL C.J. Mosley had one tackle and a sack. DB David Barrett had an interception. DB Kerry Rhodes had three tackles. LB Jonathan Vilma had three tackles. DB Erik Coleman had four tackles. DB Hank Poteat had six tackles.
Analysis: Consider the Jets a No. 2 DST for Week 16 against Miami and use all regular IDP players as needed.
News: The New York Jets DST allowed 31 points and 318 total net yards in Week 14 against the Bills. The Jets also recorded three sacks, no interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Jets DST should only be considered a low-end Fantasy option for Week 15 at Minnesota.
News: The New York Jets announced FB B.J. Askew (foot), RB Kevan Barlow (calf), RB Derrick Blaylock, QB Kellen Clemens, DL Rashad Moore, LB Ryan Riddle and S Eric Smith are inactive for Week 14 against the Bills.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are useful options for Fantasy leagues in Week 15 at Minnesota.
News: The Jets defense totaled two sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble while holding the Packers to 10 points at Lambeau Field in Week 13. They did yield 102 rush yards to Ahman Green in the game and another 33 yards to Brett Favre.
Analysis: The Jets defense should continue to be used as a low-end option vs. Buffalo in Week 14.
News: The Jets were tired of hearing about having trouble making the switch from the 4-3 to the 3-4 scheme. They also had enough of teams running all over them. So they got together during their bye a few weeks ago and vowed to change things. End result? After blitz-filled game plans the previous two weeks held New England and Chicago to a total of 27 points, the Jets stuck to their base defense Sunday and still constantly harassed Houston's offense in a 26-11 win. Two keys included the Jets' defensive line creating a pass rush and the defense as a whole closing out games in the fourth quarter. "If we play like we've been playing, we can be OK," SS Kerry Rhodes said of the defense. "Everybody's doing the right thing right now. We're in the right spots, where we're supposed to be, and everybody's been accountable. If we keep doing that, we have a chance to be good."
Analysis: Monitor the progress of the Jets defense, and feel free to pick them up as a backup unit or a starting unit in deeper leagues. They're a low-end option at best at Green Bay in Week 13.
News: The Jets allowed just 11 points and 332 yards of offense in Week 12 vs. Houston. They forced one turnover and sacked the quarterback four times.
Analysis: The Jets had a good matchup and made the most of it at home. Consider them a nice start in leagues of 12-plus teams for Week 13 at Green Bay.
News: The Jets defense held the Bears to 10 points but didn't force any turnovers and had one sack of Rex Grossman in the game.
Analysis: The Jets defense should do much better vs. Houston in Week 12. Consider them if you're platooning defenses.
News: The Jets defense bent but didn't break at New England in Week 11, yielding 14 points and tacking on four sacks, one interception and two forced fumbles. They did allow 143 rush yards.
Analysis: The Jets defense is at best a desperation choice vs. Chicago in Week 11.
News: The New York Jets have had their share of struggles on defense this season, and coach Eric Mangini has the simple solution. "One of the things that we work on all the time that we need to do better and need to be more consistent with is tackling," Mangini said Thursday. "It's so important that the 3-yard runs stay 3-yard runs, the 8-yard runs stay 8-yard runs and we can't give up those extra yards after contact." New York is ranked second-to-last in overall defense, with its run unit 30th in the league after allowing an average of 143 yards rushing per game. Many times this season, opposing running backs have hit a hole and been met by a defender - but managed to break away for a long gain. "Tackling is critical," Mangini said.
Analysis: The Jets are coming off a bye and surely spent much of the week practicing tackling. Still, they face a two-headed monster in Corey Dillon and Laurence Maroney in Week 10 and it is not recommended you use the Jets DST for Fantasy purposes. Not to forget that Tom Brady is also on the other side of the ball.
News: The Browns racked up 267 total yards against the Jets in Week 8, but did a majority of the damage on the ground with 147 yards. The Jets defense managed to get three sacks (LB Eric Barton, LB/DL Bryan Thomas, Drew Coleman) and one interception (DB Eric Smith). Barton led the team with 10 tackles. The Jets DST got a boost thanks to Justin Miller, who returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. His second kickoff return for a touchdown this season and his third in the past nine games dating back to last season.
Analysis: The Jets DST has not been a Fantasy favorite in 2006. The Jets often have to outscore their opponents to win as the defense struggles to learn the 3-4 defense. They are usually not a recommended Fantasy DST. Barton and Thomas are suitable Fantasy IDP options. Miller is definitely worth adding to your team if you are in a league that rewards heavily for return yards. The Jets are on a bye in Week 9.
News: The Jets escaped with a win over the Lions in Week 7, but no before giving up 24 points and 386 yards. The defense sacked QB Jon Kitna once and intercepted him twice. DB Kerry Rhodes and LB Jonathan Vilma (11 tackles) had the interceptions. DL Dewayne Robertson had the lone sack.
Analysis: The Jets DST has not been a Fantasy favorite in 2006. The Jets often have to outscore their opponents to win as the defense struggles to learn the 3-4 defense. They are usually not a recommended Fantasy DST, but consider using them in Week 8 as a one-week sleeper DST playing against the Browns. Rhodes and Vilma remain solid IDP options. Robertson should be used a reserve in IDP leagues.
News: The Jets defeated the Dolphins 20-17 in Week 6, but were outgained 395-272. The Jets defense did intercept Dolphins QB Joey Harrington twice and recover a fumble. LB Victor Hobson had three tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery. DE/LB Bryan Thomas led the team with 11 tackles followed by DB Kerry Rhodes eight.
Analysis: The Jets defense have suffered at times this season trying to adjust to a 3-4 scheme under new head coach Eric Mangini. Consider the Jets DST a No. 2 option heading into Week 7. The Jets play the Lions. Rhodes is a legit No. 1 Fantasy DB in IDP leagues. Thomas is a decent player depending on his Fantasy eligibility. If it is at LB, he is OK but not great. But if he has DE eligibility, since he plays in a 3-4 scheme, he gets a ton of tackles and makes for a great Fantasy DE. Hobson should only be used as a reserve LB in the deepest of IDP leagues.
News: The Jets DST gave up 41 points against Jacksonville and produced no turnovers. Only LB Eric Barton had a sack.
Analysis: The Jets DST is not a recommended start against Miami in Week 6. Keep all of their players reserved in IDP leagues also. LB Jonathan Vilma had just four tackles.
News: The Jets defense came up with two sacks vs. Indianapolis in Week 4, and that's it (What did you expect? They played against Peyton Manning.). Justin Miller did return a kickoff 103 yards in the game to help give the Jets a temporary lead in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: The Jets defense didn't do anything to prove they could stop the run, and it will continue to be a problem for them. Consider the Jets nothing more than a middle-end bye-week replacement defense in Fantasy Football. Don't use them if you don't have to against the run-happy Jaguars in Jacksonville in Week 5.
News: The Jets defense allowed 475 yards of total offense in Week 3 at Buffalo. They gave up 20 points, but forced three turnovers in the game and returned a fumble for a TD in the third quarter.
Analysis: Jonathan Vilma had a chance to return another fumble for a TD, but he botched the play and only recovered the ball. Overall, the DTD may offset alot of the damage caused by the yards allowed and the Jets salvaged an otherwise mediocre day statistically. Consider the Jets a less than desireable option in Week 4 vs. the Indianapolis Colts.
9/17/2006
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Jets D gives up 358 yards
News: The Jets defense limped out of the Meadowlands in Week 2 giving up 358 yards and 24 points to the Patriots in a losing effort. The sacked QB Tom Brady only once, had one interception and one forced fumble. DB Kerry Rhodes led the defense with 10 tackles and a sack. LB Eric Barton had 10 tackles and Jonathan Vilma chipped in with seven.
Analysis: The Jets are still adjusting to a 3-4 defense this season and that usually takes teams more than half a season to do. For now, consider the Jets a decent bye-week replacement unit, but with some chance for upside. They'll face the Bills in Week 3.
9/11/2006
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Jets all over Titans in Week 1
News: The N.Y. Jets made three interceptions and picked up two sacks in a Week 1 win at Tennessee. They held the Titans to 328 yards and 16 points (off two TDs and two 2-point conversions).
Analysis: The Jets are still adjusting to a 3-4 defense this season and that usually takes teams more than half a season to do. For now, consider the Jets a decent bye-week replacement unit, but with some chance for upside. They'll face the Patriots in Week 2.
9/7/2006
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Jets digging new 3-4 scheme
News: When Eric Mangini took over as the Jets' head coach, he and new defensive coordinator Bob Sutton installed the 3-4 scheme. In that system, there are three down lineman and four linebackers -- an alignment the Jets haven't played consistently since the mid-1990s. Mangini certainly knows a thing or two about defense after helping make New England's unit one of the best in football the past few seasons. He also knows exactly what's needed to turn a defense into a game-planning nightmare for opposing coaches. "I think some of it comes from the scheme and some of it comes from the coverage by the secondary, where if that's going well and you're doing a good job on the back end, it gives you more time to get to the passer," Mangini said. "So it's really the coordination between the two. And then when you do blitz, having sound coverage so that you minimize the potential for big plays."
Analysis: The Jets players have warmed up to the new scheme, which will allow lots of blitzing. Their first test comes against a Titans offense that hasn't picked out a quarterback or a running back and have a less-than-stellar offensive line. Despite being tagged as one of the worst teams in the league, the Jets defense is worth rolling with in Week 1 if your primary unit faces a very strong offense.
9/1/2006
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Bobby Hamilton traded to Jets
News: The New York Jets acquired defensive end Bobby Hamilton from the Oakland Raiders on Friday for an undisclosed draft pick.
Analysis: This will be Hamilton's second stint with the Jets, having played for them from 1996-99. The 12-year veteran spent two years with the Raiders, recording 102 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks and starting 28 games. But his chances of making the team were in doubt as Oakland has lots of depth on the defensive line. The Jets were in need of help on the line, where they have some depth problems. Linemen Sione Pouha and Tui Alailefaleula were placed on injured reserve and Monsanto Pope left the team for personal reasons.
8/27/2006
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Jets DST cuts seven players
News: The New York Jets released CB Omowale Dada, LB Mondoe Davis, LB Jamar Enzor, LB Alonzo Jackson, CBs D.J. Johnson and Jovon Johnson and CB Rayshaun Reed on Sunday.
Analysis: The Jets will not miss these players. The team's DST a decent bye-week replacement when they face a soft matchup.
8/16/2006
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Jets D playing in a 3-4
News: Not surprisingly, the Jets lined up in a 3-4 defense to start their first preseason game against Tampa Bay, and that was their base defense for most of the game. The starting lineup featured Shaun Ellis at left end, Dewayne Robertson at nose tackle and Kimo von Oelhoffen in his Jets debut at right end. The linebackers were Jonathan Vilma and Eric Barton on the inside, Victor Hobson and Bryan Thomas on the outside.
Analysis: At first glance, this front seven does not look half bad, but with a secondary that is mostly young and an offense that is in need of a running game, chances are this defense will be on the field a lot. Consider this DST a decent bye-week replacement when they face a soft matchup.
8/8/2006
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Jets' Coleman has appendectomy
News: The New York Daily News reports that Jets SS Erik Coleman has missed practice due to having his appendix removed. He had the surgery on Aug. 2 and isn't expected to miss more than 10 days of work, but it could push him out of the Week 1 game at Tennessee if his body isn't in game shape.
Analysis: Coleman is a helpful member of the Jets defense. Currently, he is being replaced by rookie third-round pick Eric Smith. The Jets were initially believed to be a sleeper unit for 2006, but with so many good DSTs not being considered in the top-12 and the team switching schemes, they're probably only going to be useful as a desperation bye-week replacement this year.
8/4/2006
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Vilma pumped for 3-4 defense
News: The New York Daily News reports that Jets LB Jonathan Vilma has been preparing for his switch to playing as an inside linebacker in the team's new 3-4 defensive system since the offseason. According to head coach Eric Mangini, Vilma will be fine when the season starts. "He has a very good sense of where the ball is going and how the plays are going to unfold," said head coach Eric Mangini. "That would apply to whatever system he's playing in."
Analysis: The Jets were initially believed to be a sleeper unit for 2006, but with so many good DSTs not being considered in the top-12 and the team switching schemes, they're probably only going to be useful as a desperation bye-week replacement this year.
5/1/2006
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Schlegel best Jets addition
News: Ohio State LB Anthony Schlegel was taken in the third round, 76th overall, by the Jets. He was their highest-drafted defensive player.
Analysis: Schlegel should be a backup linebacker for the Jets and doesn't really change much for them. The Jets' defense is improved all around with the addition of veterans Brad Kassell, Andre Dyson and Kimo von Oelhoffen, so this could be a sleeper unit for 2006.
4/10/2006
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Jets ink LB Kassell
News: Free agent linebacker Brad Kassell agreed to a contract with the Jets. He's expected to play outside linebacker. "Brad has demonstrated through his first four seasons in the NFL that he is a tough player who understands the commitment level needed to succeed at the pro level," said GM Mike Tannenbaum. "People who have coached him have spoken about his selfless demeanor and the team-first mentality he has and we've put an emphasis on acquiring those types of talented players."
Analysis: Two years ago, Kassell was one of the rising star LBs in the league before getting hurt. He should definitely help the Jets' run defense if he can stay on his feet. Moreover, the Jets' defense is improved all around with the addition of veterans Kassell, Andre Dyson and Kimo von Oelhoffen. This could be a sleeper unit for 2006.
3/30/2006
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Jets sign CB Andre Dyson
News: The Bergen County Record reports that the Jets have signed ex-Seattle CB Andre Dyson to a five-year contract. Dyson will assume Ty Law's old spot in the team's secondary. Dyson received interest from the Seahawks and the Titans, his two previous teams.
Analysis: Dyson will help the Jets' secondary, which was pretty good to begin with but needed a solid replacement for Law. Still, don't count on the Jets DST to be a Fantasy force in 2006.
2/21/2006
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Jets franchise John Abraham
News: According to reports, the New York Jets have placed the franchise tag on DE John Abraham for a second straight season. He can guarantee an $8.332 million one-year deal by signing the qualifying offer.
Analysis: The Jets are in salary cap hell at this point, so don't be shocked if the team decides to trade Abraham in the offseason.
2/13/2006
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Law to be released?
News: CB Ty Law told the Kansas City Star that he expects to be released by the Jets this offseason. He's interested in a $10 guaranteed contract, which may come to him from Herman Edwards' new franchise, the Chiefs.
Analysis: The Jets' secondary has some young talent already but will be retooled this offseason and isn't expected to be a dominating Fantasy unit.
1/5/2006
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Jets DST falls below expectations
News: The Jets DST, regarded before the season as one of the better units in the NFL, was a complete bust. Not only did they give up a bunch of points, but they did not score well among Fantasy DSTs despite having 21 interceptions.
Analysis: This has to be an aberration, especially with the Jets wielding one of the NFL's top linebackers in Jonathan Vilma. With coaching changes a distinct possibility, get a good grip on how the Jets' philosophies will change this offseason before investing a late-round pick on them in '06.
12/28/2005
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Law should play in Week 17
News: CB Ty Law notched his team-leading seventh interception of the season, and returned it 74 yards for a first-quarter touchdown. It was his first touchdown since Oct. 5, 2003, when he returned an interception 65 yards in a 38-30 New England victory against Tennessee. Law had to leave the game later with residual soreness in his left foot, but will be ready to play in the season finale.
Analysis: The Jets DST could be a decent unit vs. Buffalo in Week 17.
12/27/2005
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Jets DST torched by the Pats
News: The Jets DST allowed 31 points and 321 total net yards in Week 16 against the Patriots. The evening was highlighted by a 74-yard touchdown reception by Ty Law in the first quarter. They also posted three sacks and an interception.
Analysis: The Jets are not a recommended Fantasy defense against the Bills in Week 17.
News: DE Shaun Ellis (hamstring) was unofficially listed as questionable for the New England game by Edwards. He left the Oakland game in the second half because of the injury and then missed the game at Miami. DT Dewayne Robertson (thigh bruise) missed a game for the first time in his three-year NFL career. He is unofficially listed as questionable for New England.
Analysis: The Jets DST is not worth rolling with vs. New England in Week 16.
12/18/2005
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Jets D not strong
News: The Jets defense yielded 24 points at Miami in Week 15. They recorded one sack and one interception.
Analysis: The Jets D will have its hands full vs. New England in Week 16.
12/15/2005
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Jets D will have hands full
News: The Jets' run defense did a good job of stopping former teammate LaMont Jordan, and now will have to deal with Miami's Ronnie Brown, who is averaging 4.1 yards per carry. Journeyman QB Gus Frerotte passed for 229 yards and two TDs with no interceptions against San Diego last week, and WR Chris Chambers certainly is a force to be reckoned with.
Analysis: The Jets DST is not a usable unit when they play at Miami in Week 15.
12/14/2005
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Hamstring sidelines DE Ellis
News: DE Shaun Ellis (hamstring) will miss the Jets' Week 15 game at Miami, reports the Newark Star-Ledger. The Jets are thinking about benching Ellis for the season.
Analysis: The Jets DST is still not a usable unit when they play at Miami in Week 15.
12/12/2005
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Jets D shuts Moss down
News: The Jets DST allowed 10 points, recorded six sacks, had two interceptions and forced three fumbles while holding Randy Moss to 18 receiving yards in Week 14 vs. Oakland.
Analysis: The Jets DST should be benched when they play at Miami in Week 15.
12/8/2005
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Vilma knows why Jets are down
News: Jets LB Jonathan Vilma understands why the Jets are giving up so many scores. "It's just been tough because it's not one thing; it's an accumulation of things," he said. "They get the ball inside the 30, obviously they're not going to do anything stupid, they're going to run the ball and you say, 'They aren't getting sacks,' and that's the reason why, they just keep running the ball so it's really not one thing you can just turn your head on."
Analysis: The Jets are still doing pretty well on defense all things considered, but they should not be a first choice for a Fantasy owner vs. Oakland in Week 14.
12/5/2005
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Jets DST allow 16 points
News: The Jets DST allowed 16 points in Week 13 at New England while registering two sacks.
Analysis: The Jets DST are not recommended for Week 14 vs. Oakland.
12/2/2005
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Jets D has a chance
News: The Jets forced no turnovers against the Saints last week, who entered the game with the worst turnover margin in the NFL. Perhaps the Jets' defense can make some big plays against New England QB Tom Brady, who threw an uncharacteristic four interceptions against Kansas City last week. The Jets also need to control New England's hobbled running game, which appears to be getting RB Corey Dillon back this week.
Analysis: If Dillon doesn't play, the Jets DST is a usable unit since they're so stocked against the pass. However, using them could really limit your DST point production.
11/28/2005
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Jets defense has quiet Fantasy night
News: The Jets managed just one sack and no turnovers in a Week 12 loss to the Saints.
Analysis: New York's DST is not a highly recommended option for Week 13 in New England.
11/20/2005
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Jets D run over
News: The New York Jets allowed 27 points and 404 yards of offense. They gave up 196 yards on the ground in Week 11 at Denver.
Analysis: As with anything involving the Jets, stay as far away as possible from their DST. They face the Saints in Week 11.
11/13/2005
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N.Y. Jets DST allows 30 points
News: The N.Y. Jets DST allowed 30 points without recording a sack in Week 10 at Carolina. The unit did manage two INTs in the blowout loss.
Analysis: Avoid the N.Y. Jets DST in Week 11 at Denver.
11/12/2005
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Jets to start rookie CB
News: Jets starting cornerback David Barrett will miss Sunday's game at Carolina because of an eye injury. Barrett was downgraded to out Saturday. He was poked in the eye in a loss to San Diego last weekend. Rookie Justin Miller is expected to start in his place. The Jets also activated defensive back D.J. Johnson for the game.
Analysis: The Jets DST has been terrible of late and are not a recommended start in Week 10 at Carolina. Rookie Justin Miller could be worth picking up in IDP leagues as a a No. 3 DB because he will probably get picked on all day.
11/10/2005
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Jets DST struggling
News: LB Kenyatta Wright (ankle/knee) and S Oliver Celestin (knee) are listed as questionable while DE John Abraham (shoulder) and LB Victor Hobson (groin) are listed as probable for Week 10 at Carolina. The Jets DST has allowed at least 27 points in their last three games.
Analysis: The Jets DST has been a huge disappointment this season and are not a recommended start at Carolina.
11/6/2005
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Jets D can't stop Tomlinson
News: The Jets DST registered a sack, an interception and recovered a fumble vs. San Diego in Week 9, but still yielded four touchdowns to LaDainian Tomlinson and 31 points total to the Chargers.
Analysis: The Jets defense is falling apart, and they will have their hands full at Carolina in Week 10.
10/21/2005
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Ty Law misses practice
News: Ty Law didn't practice Thursday and could be limited in Week 7 because of back and groin injuries. He's expected to start, but look for rookie CB Justin Miller to see more action than usual.
Analysis: The Jets DST is not a recommended option against the Atlanta Falcons.
10/18/2005
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CB Law questionable for Week 7
News: The Jets are a little banged up on defense. Cornerback Ty Law is questionable for Monday night's game at Atlanta with lower back spasms, and backup safety Oliver Celestin is questionable with a left knee injury. There was one bit of good news: linebacker Eric Barton should play after missing the past three games with a sprained ankle.
Analysis: The Jets have a solid defense, but it is pretty much made useless in Fantasy leagues because of their weak offense that puts it in compromising field position. Consider the Jets defense a low-end Fantasy option at this point.
10/17/2005
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Jets DST allows 27 points
News: The Jets defense allowed 27 points and 341 total net yards in Week 6 at Buffalo. They also had a sack and two interceptions.
Analysis: The Jets will look to put the clamps on QB Michael Vick and the rushing attack of the Falcons in Week 7.
10/9/2005
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Jets D gives up no TDs
News: The Jets DST came up big in Week 5, keeping the Buccaneers out of the end zone, holding them to 12 points on four field goals. They also picked off Brian Griese once, forced a fumble and had four sacks.
Analysis: The Jets DST is good to use in formats where yardage against gets you points. The Jets could be worth using at Buffalo in Week 6.
10/2/2005
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Jets defense decent in Week 4
News: The Jets defense performed well at Baltimore in Week 4, allowing only 13 points and 259 total net yards. They also recorded an interception and fumble recovery, but no sacks.
Analysis: The Jets defense is a solid Fantasy unit when your primary defense has a difficult matchup or bye week. They face the Buccaneers in Week 5.
9/25/2005
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Jets defense folds in the end
News: The Jets defense allowed 26 points and 308 total net yards in the Week 3 overtime loss to the Jaguars. On a positive note, they did post two sacks, an interception and two fumble recoverines.
Analysis: The Jets are a recommended unit for Week 4 against a banged up Baltimore offense.
9/16/2005
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DE Abraham to start
News: The Newark Star-Ledger confirms DE John Abraham will start for the Jets in Week 2 vs. Miami. After a Week 1 debacle, the Jets should be ready to roll this week.
Analysis: The Jets could be very focused on stopping the upstart Dolphins in Week 2. They're not a bad DST option.
9/15/2005
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Jets angry after loss at KC
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports LB Jonathan Vilma and the Jets are furious with themselves after allowing 198 rush yards against Kansas City in Week 1. "I take it very personal," Vilma said. "It still bothers me now. I have to make sure it doesn't happen again."
Analysis: The Jets could be very focused on stopping the upstart Dolphins in Week 2. They're not a bad DST option.
9/14/2005
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Jets' defense in disarray
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that the Jets defense was in disarray on the sidelines during their Week 1 loss at Kansas City. LB Jonathan Vilma suffered a swollen left eye, possibly from DT James Reed, whom he scuffled with. Also, DE John Abraham got angry with defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson because of Henderson not wanting to put Abraham in the game when he was ready. "It was a little frustration," Edwards said. "Family policy stays in the house. ... I don't like guys losing their composure, but sometimes it happens."
Analysis: Edwards will either lose control of his defense, or rally them together for an inspired effort against Miami in Week 2. We'd bet on the latter happening.
9/11/2005
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Chiefs roll Jets DST
News: The Jets DST allowed 27 points and recorded just one sack and one interception Sunday's loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Analysis: Not a great start to the season, but the future remains bright for this unit. Owners in leagues with 12-plus teams should consider it in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins.
8/26/2005
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Ty Law makes Jets debut
News: Ty Law (foot) made his debut for the N.Y. Jets in Friday's preseason contest vs. the N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: The presence of Law makes the Jets DST even more attractive in drafts.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that according to sources, DE John Abraham will sign a one-year deal and return to the Jets. He may even be back soon enough to play in the team's final preseason game. Also, CB Ty Law will play against the Giants in this week's preseason game.
Analysis: Abraham and Law complete the Jets DST and makes them a unit worthy of starting most weeks for a Fantasy team.
8/23/2005
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Law to play; DE Abraham back?
News:Newsday reports that according to sources, DE John Abraham will sign a one-year deal and return to the Jets. He will also switch jersey numbers (from No. 94 to No. 56). Elsewhere, head coach Herman Edwards told the Newark Star-Ledger that new CB Ty Law will play against the Giants in Week 3 of the preseason.
Analysis: Abraham and Law completes the Jets' D-line and makes them a DST unit worthy of starting most weeks for a Fantasy team.
8/22/2005
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Abraham to end holdout from Jets?
News: According to Newsday, Jets DE John Abraham might be close to ending his holdout. He was in New York last weekend after meeting with his agents.
Analysis: Abraham's presence would clinch the Jets' defense as a top-10 unit in Fantasy Football. Without him, they are a very strong No. 2 DST.
8/17/2005
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John Abraham still not in camp
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports DE John Abraham still isn't in camp and still hasn't even resumed negotiations with the team. He is meeting with his agents to talk further about his holdout. "There's nothing new to report," GM Terry Bradway said. ... In other news, CB Derrick Strait will start over rookie Justin Miller against the Vikings.
Analysis: Abraham's presence would clinch the Jets' defense as a top-10 unit in Fantasy Football. Without him, they are a very strong No. 2 DST.
8/10/2005
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Jets trade McGraw, cut Hunter
News: The Lions acquired veteran safety Jon McGraw from the Jets in exchange for a conditional draft pick. The Jets also cut CB Pete Hunter.
Analysis: The Jets' secondary got a huge boost with the signing of Ty Law and the addition of some rookie DBs who can play. The moves eliminate some depth, but doesn't solve the problems the Jets have up front. They're a solid No. 2 Fantasy DST.
8/10/2005
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LB Barton out; Robertson hurting
News: The New York Daily News reports DT Dewayne Robertson visited Dr. James Andrews to have him check out his ailing knee. It appears that he has no cartilage there, but that doesn't mean surgery for the young run stopper. "It's just something he'll have to deal with his whole career," Edwards said. In other news, the Newark Star-Ledger reports LB Eric Barton won't play against the Lions in the team's preseason opener.
Analysis: The Jets' secondary just got a huge boost with the signing of Ty Law, so it's not good that their front seven is banged up. Combined with the absence of Dewayne Robertson, the Jets could be a shaky DST to rely on. Make them your backup DST.
8/9/2005
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Jets DBs improving with Law
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that with the addition of Ty Law, the Jets secondary is looking good. Law and David Barrett will start at cornerback with rookie Justin Miller as the third corner and Derrick Strait as the nickelback. Erik Coleman and first-year player Oliver Celestin will play safety with rookies Kerry Rhodes and Andre Maddox behind them.
Analysis: The Jets DST is still without DE John Abraham, but otherwise they're worth starting in leagues with 14 or more teams.
8/8/2005
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Jets sign CB Ty Law
News: Cornerback Ty Law has agreed to terms with the Jets and will join the team pending a physical, says NewYorkJets.com. Law will most likely inherit the starting CB job opposite David Barrett. The team also cut Ray Mickens, according to Newsday.
Analysis: Law provides leadership and ability for New York's secondary, two things it desperately needs. While health is a concern, Law should make a significant difference defensively for the Jets, improving the unit a few notches. They're worth starting in leagues with 14 or more teams.
8/3/2005
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Jets rookie CB Miller impressive
News: The Newark Star-Ledger and NewYorkJets.com report that rookie CB Justin Miller has been lights out so far in camp, picking off three passes and making some great plays. Miller could even contend for a starting spot opposite David Barrett, especially if the Jets don't sign Ty Law, says the Star-Ledger.
Analysis: The Jets' secondary may be improving, but they are still to be considered a No. 2 Fantasy DST (albeit a very good one). The team will still work out CB Ty Law, so Miller's spot in the starting lineup isn't clinched just yet.
7/31/2005
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Jets to work out UFA CB Ty Law
News: According to published reports, the Jets are expected to work out unrestricted free agent CB Ty Law some time this week.
Analysis: The Lions are not expected to be able to fit Law under their salary cap, so it looks like the Jets are now the front runner for his services.
7/22/2005
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DE Abraham still holding out
News: Jets GM Terry Bradway has said that he does not know what plans John Abraham has for the upcoming season. The team gave him the franchise tag and a one-year tender, but Abraham has not signed the tender.
Analysis: The Jets' pass rush will suffer if Abraham does not play. If he does play, then the Jets D/ST unit is worth drafting as a top backup.
7/15/2005
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Donnie Abraham retires
News: According to reports, Donnie Abraham has decided to retire.
Analysis: Abraham spent the past three seasons with the Jets after starting his career with Tampa Bay. In nine NFL seasons, he had 447 tackles, 94 passes defensed and 38 interceptions.
7/14/2005
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DB Abraham might retire
News: According to reports, Donnie Abraham still might decide to retire. As a result, the New York Jets have acquired DB Pete Hunter from the Dallas Cowboys for a conditional seventh-round pick. The Jets might also look to sign free agent DB Ty Law as well.
Analysis: The addition of Hunter is much ado about nothing, but to acquire Law would make the Jets DST even more attractive in drafts.
6/15/2005
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Jets cut Tongue
News: The Jets waived veteran cornerback Reggie Tongue. He had 71 tackles and an interception in 2004.
Analysis: This move seemed obvious since Donnie Abraham decided to play with the team in 2005. Along with David Barrett, Terrell Buckley and rookie Justin Miller, the Jets did not have a need for Tongue at cornerback.
5/17/2005
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Abraham to return in 2005
News: The North Jersey Record reports Donnie Abraham has decided not to retire and will return to the Jets next season.
Analysis: This means the team is less likely to pursue free agent CB Ty Law.
5/15/2005
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Jets interested in Law
News:Newsday reports the New York Jets remain interested in signing Ty Law, who has expressed a desire to play for head coach Herman Edwards.
Analysis: The Jets won't make a move until Law proves he is 100 percent recovered from an injured foot.
4/11/2005
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Jets to deal Abraham?
News: The New York Daily News reports the Jets are willing to listen to trade offers for their franchise player, John Abraham, who wants a new contract.
Analysis: The Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings could decide to pursue Abraham this offseason.
3/16/2005
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DE Abraham to hold out?
News: The New York Daily News reports John Abraham is considering a holdout because he wants a long-term contract from the Jets.
Analysis: Abraham is the team's franchise player but is not expected to accept a one-year deal.
1/14/2005
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Jets rule out Abraham
News: According to reports, DE John Abraham (knee) is out for Saturday's Divisional Game at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: The Jets DST remains a nice option in postseason leagues.
1/11/2005
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Abraham a question mark
News: DE John Abraham is questionable for Saturday's Divisional Game at Pittsburgh with a sprained right knee. "When a player can't go full speed you really don't want to put him in harm's way," coach Herman Edwards said. "It's best for John, best for the team until he can go full speed he shouldn't play. He's going to do everything he can this week to try to be prepared."
Analysis: Though Abraham is still sore, Edwards expects him to participate when the team returns to practice Wednesday.
1/7/2005
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Abraham a question mark
News: The New York Daily News reports it seems unlikely that DE John Abraham (knee) will return for Saturday's postseason game.
Analysis: He likely will be a gametime decision at San Diego.
1/4/2005
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DE John Abraham to return
News: According to reports, Abraham (knee) will be available for Saturday's postseason game at San Diego.
Analysis: Abraham injured his lateral collateral ligament vs. Pittsburgh on Dec. 12. He will be used mostly on pass-rush downs.
12/21/2004
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Abraham out again
News: According to the New York Daily News, Jets defensive end John Abraham (knee) is out for Week 16 against New England and in all probability, will also miss Week 17 against St. Louis. Right now, the team is just hoping to have him available for the playoffs. "I would hope, yeah," coach Herman Edwards said. "We're keeping our fingers crossed for that, that he comes back." In other news, linebacker Victor Hobson (ankle) could return against the Patriots.
Analysis: Abraham has missed two games with sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee. Hobson has missed the last four games with a high-ankle sprain.
12/19/2004
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Barton leads Jets
News: The Jets defense caused three turnovers (two fumbles, interception) and shut out Seattle in the second half as New York beat up on the Seahawks in Week 15. Linebacker Eric Barton led the effort with 11 tackles, a sack, forced fumble, fumble recovery as well as an interception.
Analysis: The Jets have steadily improved on defense as the season has progressed. They are worth owning in all leagues. The Jets face New England in Week 16.
12/17/2004
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Cotchery to return
News: According to the New York Post, Jets rookie WR Jerricho Cotchery will handle the kickoff returns in Week 15 against Seattle.
Analysis: Jonathan Carter had been serving as the kickoff returner but coach Herman Edwards wants to give Cotchery a try.
News: According to Newsday, Jets defensive end John Abraham (knee) is out for Week 15 against Seattle due to a sprained ligament in his right knee. "He's getting better, but he won't be able to play this week," coach Herman Edwards said.
Analysis: Abraham was forced to miss Week 14 as well. The Jets D/ST are worth using in leagues with at least 12 teams when they face the Seahawks.
12/10/2004
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Hobson likely out
News: According to Newsday, Jets strong-side linebacker Victor Hobson (questionable, ankle) practiced on Thursday but appears likely to miss Week 14 at Pittsburgh. Other Jets defensive players listed on their injury report for Week 14 include: DE John Abraham (knee, out), S Oliver Celestin (ankle, probable) and LB Jason Glenn (forearm, probable).
Analysis: Hobson has already missed two straight games with his injury. He will be replaced by Mark Brown. The Jets D/ST are worth using in leagues with at least 12 teams.
12/6/2004
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Abraham injures knee
News: John Abraham left in the second quarter of Week 13 against Houston with a sprained ligament in his right knee. The injury will cause him to miss Week 14.
Analysis: Abraham is second in the NFL with 9 1/2 sacks. The Jets have a tough matchup in Week 14 when they travel to Pittsburgh.
12/5/2004
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Jets DST allow only seven points
News: The Jets DST gave up a total of 230 yards to the Texans Sunday. They only allowed one touchdown in the contest.
Analysis: The Jets DST should be reserved, however, as they face a tough Pittsburgh offense in Week 14 on the road.
11/26/2004
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Jets D/ST injury update
News: The Jets listed the following defensive players on their injury report for Week 12 against Arizona: LB Jason Glenn (forearm, questionable), LB Victor Hobson (ankle, questionable) and S Jon McGraw (groin, questionable).
Analysis: The Jets should only be considered in leagues with at least 12 teams when they travel to Arizona in Week 12.
11/23/2004
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Jets D banged up
News: According to Newsday, strong-side linebacker Victor Hobson will miss Week 12 at Arizona with a high sprain of his right ankle and safety Jon McGraw is questionable with a groin injury. In other news, kickoff returner Jerricho Cotchery is out for Week 12 with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Mark Brown will replace Hobson in the starting lineup. The Jets should only be considered in larger leagues.
11/22/2004
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Jets keep Browns to seven points
News: The N.Y. Jets DST allowed only seven points, 99 yards rushing and 117 yards passing to the Browns at Cleveland Sunday.
Analysis: The Jets DST unit is worth starting again at Arizona in Week 12.
11/19/2004
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Shaun Ellis fine
News: According to the New York Post, Jets defensive end Shaun Ellis has been removed from the injury list. His groin is "fine," according to coach Herm Edwards.
Analysis: The Jets should only be considered in leagues with at least 12 teams when they travel to Cleveland in Week 11.
11/18/2004
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Jets D/ST injury update
News: According to New York Newsday, DE Shaun Ellis (groin, probable) and S Jon McGraw (groin, probable) were both able to return to practice after missing Week 10. In other news, LB Eric Barton missed practice with an illness and is listed as probable. S Rashad Washington (foot, questionable) and Jason Glenn (forearm, out) are also listed on the injury report.
Analysis: The Jets should only be considered in leagues with at least 12 teams when they travel to Cleveland in Week 11.
11/16/2004
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DE Ellis probable
News:Newsday reports Shaun Ellis (groin) is probable for Week 11.
Analysis: In other news, DB Jon McGraw (groin) is also listed as probable.
11/14/2004
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Jets allow 20 points
News: The Jets DST allowed 20 points with three sacks in Sunday's loss to Baltimore.
Analysis: This unit is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 11.
11/12/2004
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Jets defense update
News: According to Newsday, defensive end Shaun Ellis (groin) practiced and was upgraded to probable for Week 10 against Baltimore. In other news, defensive end John Abraham missed practice because of food poisoning and S Jon McGraw (groin) is questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: The Jets are a decent option as a Fantasy D/ST in Week 10 since they are facing a weak Baltimore offense.
11/3/2004
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Jets defense dinged up
News: According to Newsday, defensive end Shaun Ellis twisted his left ankle and defensive end John Abraham dislocated a finger in Week 8 against Miami. Also, backup guard Brent Smith sprained the MCL in his left knee and underwent an MRI. Results were not immediately known. Linebacker Sam Cowart (knee) and cornerback Derrick Strait (foot) remain questionable for Week 9 against Buffalo.
Analysis: The Jets should only be considered in larger leagues.
11/2/2004
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LB Cowart inactive in Week 8
News: LB Sam Cowart (knee) was inactive again in Week 8 against the Dolphins. Rookie Jonathan Vilma got another start in his absence and will likely stay in the lineup in some capacity when Cowart is healthy enough to return.
Analysis: The Jets defense allowed seven points until the final play of the game when the Dolphins had an oh-by-the-way score. The Jets defense is a solid unit for Week 9 at Buffalo.
10/27/2004
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LB Cowart questionable for Week 8
News: LB Sam Cowart (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 8 against the Dolphins, but according to the Jersey Record, he is not expected to play.
Analysis: In other news, CB Derrick Strait (foot) and S Rashad Washington (foot) are both questionable for Week 8. Despite the injuries, the Jets are still a recommended Fantasy unit against Miami's awful offense.
10/26/2004
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LB Jason Glenn out one month
News:Newsday reports that LB Glenn (fractured right arm) will miss four to six weeks and will likely be placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Eric Barton will replace Glenn as the nickel linebacker. This shouldn't affect the Jets DST much. They are a solid start against a weak Dolphins' offense in Week 9.
10/24/2004
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Jets defense solid in loss
News: The Jets defense allowed 13 points and 343 net yards in Week 7 at New England. The unit also recorded three sacks, picked off two balls and forced a fumble.
Analysis: The defense was solid despite playing without LB Sam Cowart (knee) once again. The Jets will face the Dolphins and their anemic offense in Week 8 on Monday Night Football.
10/22/2004
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Cowart out again
News: According to Newsday, linebacker Sam Cowart (knee) was able to practice but according to coach Herman Edwards will probably not play in Week 7 against New England. "Probably another week," Edwards said, "but he's practicing." Other players listed on the Jets injury report are: CB Derrick Strait (out, foot), S Rashad Washington (out, foot)
Analysis: Rookie Jonathan Vilma will once again start for the Jets.
10/15/2004
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Barton is probable
News: Jets linebacker Eric Barton (ankle) practiced on Thursday and is probable for Week 6 against San Francisco. In other news, LB Sam Cowart (knee), CB Derrick Strait (foot) and S Rashad Washington (foot) will miss the 49ers game.
Analysis: The Jets are a solid Fantasy defense for Week 6.
10/5/2004
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CB Abraham has sore hip
News: The New York Daily News reports CB Donnie Abraham (hip) is expected to be ready for Week 5. He made the biggest play in Sunday's win over Miami, scoring on a 66-yard interception return.
Analysis: In other news, LB Jonathan Vilma received positive reviews for his first NFL start and will start again for LB Sam Cowart (knee).
10/4/2004
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Jets D scores another touchdown
News: The Jets defense confused Jay Fiedler and the Miami offense all day in a 17-9 Week 4 win despite playing without MLB Sam Cowart (knee). The day was highlighted by DB Donnie Abraham's 66-yard interception return for a score.
Analysis: The Jets allowed 293 total net yards, but had four sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. DL Bryan Thomas (hamstring) was also able to return to the lineup. He had two solo tackles and assisted on one other. They are a good option in Week 5 against Buffalo.
9/30/2004
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Jets ready to face Dolphins
News: The New York Jets will be without starting middle linebacker Sam Cowart for Sunday's Week 4 matchup against Miami. Cowart suffered an MCL injury to his left knee and is out four to six weeks. He was leading the team with 18 tackles.
Analysis: Jets have three interceptions, six fumble recoveries and have allowed 52 points in two victories this year. Jay Fielder will be under center for the Fins. Miami is averaging below eight points and have only reached the endzone twice. The Jets are a Fantasy decent start for this favorable matchup.
9/29/2004
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Cowart leads Jets' defense
News: Sam Cowart is leading the Jets defense with 18 tackles through two games. He'll lead the charge against Miami in Week 4.
Analysis: The Jets are a decent Fantasy option against the struggling Dolphins offense. Jay Fiedler will start at quarterback this week.
9/22/2004
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Vilma to start
News: Rookie Jonathan Vilma will take over as the starting middle linebacker for the New York Jets after an MRI exam on Sam Cowart's left knee revealed he had a sprained medial collateral ligament. Coach Herman Edwards said Cowart could miss four to six weeks. "Coaches have been putting me in a lot, so I'm used to game speed and game tempo," Vilma said. "It's not a big deal for me." In other news, defensive tackle Josh Evans (back) will have season-ending back surgery and will miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: The Jets are off to a nice start but their defense hasn't been particulary impressive. Only consider them in larger leagues. The Jets have a bye in Week 3 and then play at Miami in Week 4.
9/21/2004
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LB Cowart, DT Evans out
News: According to the Jets official website, DT Josh Evans (back) is scheduled to undergo surgery this week and will be out at least five weeks. "It will be at least five weeks or so, I assume," coach Herman Edwards said. "They haven't given us the date on that."
Analysis: In other news, LB Sam Cowart suffered a left knee sprain against the Chargers and was scheduled to undergo an MRI. He could be out for several weeks.
News: The Jets DST allowed 28 points, 111 rushing yards and 216 passing yards at San Diego Sunday.
Analysis: The Jets DST also registered two sacks and two interceptions. They have a bye in Week 3.
9/17/2004
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Jets sign DT Daleroy Stewart
News: According to New York Newsday, the Jets signed defensive tackle Daleroy Stewart, who was recently released by the Cowboys. In other news, the following defensive players appeared on the Jets injury report for Week 2: Probable -- DT Josh Evans (back), S Jon McGraw (abdomen) and DE Bryan Thomas (hamstring).
Analysis: York Jets play at the San Diego Chargers in Week 2. They should only be considered in larger leagues.
9/12/2004
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Jets D dented in Week 1
News: The Bengals scored 24 points against the Jets in Week 1.
Analysis: Not a great start for the Jets defense, despite the fact that they won the game. They should only be cosidered in larger leagues and might offer some decent value in Week 2 at San Diego.
9/10/2004
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Jets D to face Cincy
News: The New York Jets defense will face off against new Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer and the Bengals this weekend.
Analysis: The Jets should have a nice Fantasy weekend against the Bengals but are only a long-term solution in larger leagues.
9/8/2004
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Ray Mickens out/T Buck in
News: The Jets placed cornerback Ray Mickens (knee) on injured reserve Wednesday. Mickens will have surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. "It's just a shame," coach Herman Edwards said. "We had a good talk early in my office. He's down, he was anticipating getting back and helping us. I told him, 'Ray, the road to recovery is a long one, but if anyone can get it done, you can.'"
Analysis: New York signed veteran Terrell Buckley to take Mickens' roster spot. The Jets overall Fantasy value should not suffer.
9/5/2004
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Jets defense injury update
News: CB Ray Mickens (knee) was unable to go in the team's preseason finale against the Eagles. He is questionable for the team's opener against the Bengals.
Analysis: The team announced the following defensive players have been cut: CB Andrew Davison, DT Alan Harper, DB Omare Lowe and DE Matt Walters. The Jets defensive unit is still a solid No. 1 option in Fantasy leagues of 12 teams or more.
8/30/2004
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Rookie safety to start for Jets?
News: According to the New York Newsday, rookie safety Erik Coleman may end up the opening day starter for the Jets due to calf injury to veteran Reggie Tongue. "I expected it out of myself, but I don't think I really could have imagined just coming in as a rookie and starting," Coleman said. "Now that it's here, it's reality. I'm here right now, and I've got to face it. I'm doing a good job, I think."
Analysis: The Jets should be considered in the last rounds of a Fantasy draft.
8/23/2004
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CB Mickens out for Friday
News: CB Ray Mickens (knee) will miss Friday's preseason game against the Giants.
Analysis: Mickens' injury is not as serious as it could have been. He is expected to be ready for the regular season.
8/23/2004
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DL Thomas strains hamstring
News: Head coach Herman Edwards said Thomas suffered a strained left hamstring and is expected to miss at least two weeks.
Analysis: Thomas is expected to return for the regular season opener. The Jets defensive unit is only worth using as a bye week replacement or when the matchup is favorable in most Fantasy formats.
8/18/2004
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Mickens ailment not serious
News:Newsday reports CB Ray Mickens' knee injury is not as serious as it could have been. He suffered a sprain and is out this week, but should be back for the third preseason game Aug. 27 against the Giants.
Analysis: Had Mickens been out for an extended period, the Jets would have been desperate at cornerback. The Jets are so thin that CB Andrew Davison signed Tuesday and started running with the second team.
6/17/2004
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Jets' Abraham misses practices
News: The North Jersey Record reports John Abraham (groin) didn't practice during the past two weeks.
Analysis: Abraham is running at full speed and is expected to be ready for training camp. Even if he stays healthy, the Jets' defense won't be anything better than mediocre in Fantasy leagues.
12/14/2003
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Cowart misses Week 15
News: Sam Cowart (thigh) missed Sunday's game against Pittsburgh. Jason Glenn started in his absence.
Analysis: The Jets were able to shut out the Pittsburgh Steelers despite Cowart's absence.
12/11/2003
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John Abraham on IR
News: The New York Jets placed Abraham on injured reserve Thursday with a strained right groin.
Analysis: Bryan Thomas will continue to start in Abraham's place. There is growing speculation that Abraham will be moved to an outside linebacker spot next season.
12/10/2003
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LB Cowart is out
News: Jets linebacker Sam Cowart will not play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers because of a bruised left thigh. Cowart leads the team with 131 tackles. Jason Glenn will start in his place on the weak side. This is the first game that Cowart will miss since 2001.
Analysis: Without Cowart, a weak Jets defense will be rendered even more vulnerable to the running game.
12/8/2003
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LB Sam Cowart banged up
News: Cowart has a thigh bruise and according to the North Jersey Record he is questionable for Week 15 against the Steelers. If he is unable to play, Jason Glenn will start. Kick return specialist Jonathan Carter (ankle, knee) is out for Week 15. Kevin Swayne will likely assume the kick return duties.
Analysis: The Jets defense is not a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 15 against the Steelers.
12/3/2003
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DE Abraham is doubtful
News: John Abraham (groin) is doubtful for Week 14. Bryan Thomas will likely start in Abraham's place
Analysis: The Jets' defense is not recommended for Fantasy use, even when Abraham is healthy.
11/25/2003
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John Abraham might be out Monday
News: The New York Daily News reports that Abraham (groin) won't be 100 percent until after the season, and might not play in Week 13 against Tennessee. He is doubtful.
Analysis: Bryan Thomas will likely start in Abraham's place.
11/24/2003
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John Abraham is doubtful
News: John Abraham is doubtful for the Jets' upcoming game against Tennessee after re-injuring his right groin. Abraham was hurt in the first half in a 13-10 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, his first game back since straining the groin against Philadelphia on Oct. 26.
Analysis: The Jets defense should not be used in most Fantasy leagues, especially against Tennessee.
11/23/2003
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John Abraham active
News: DL Abraham (groin) and DB Donnie Abraham (shoulder) were both active in Week 12.
Analysis: The Jets defense has minimal Fantasy value.
11/21/2003
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John Abraham to play
News: Abraham (groin) was upgraded to probable for Week 12. The New York Daily News reports he will not start. he will only play in pass-rushing situations.
Analysis: The Jets' defense is not recommended for Fantasy use, even with the return of Abraham.
11/18/2003
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Jets lose FS for season
News: FS Jon McGraw (shoulder) was put on injured reserve and is out for the year. Tyrone Carter will return to the starting lineup in his place. CB Donnie Abraham (shoulder) is probable for Week 12 and will play in nickel packages, according to the New York Daily News. DE John Abraham (groin) is questionable.
Analysis: New York's defensive unit should not be used in most Fantasy leagues.
11/17/2003
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Jets FS might be finished
News: The New York Post reports Jon McGraw (shoulder), who was able to play in Week 11, might be done for the season after taking some hits that appeared to set him back on Sunday. McGraw was reportedly headed for offseason surgery, and now might need a procedure done sooner.
Analysis: New York's defensive unit should not be used in most Fantasy leagues.
11/13/2003
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Jets DBs on the mend
News: CB Donnie Abraham and FS John McGraw have both returned to practices. Both are questionable for Week 11 as they make their way back from shoulder injuries. DE John Abraham (groin) will be out again in Week 11.
Analysis: The Jets defense is not recommended for Fantasy use against the Indianapolis offense.
10/30/2003
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Rookie LB to start for Jets
News: The New York Daily News reports rookie Victor Hobson will start at OLB. Mo Lewis has a sore hip, and his declining play hasn't help his case either.
Analysis: The Jets' defense is not recommended for Fantasy use, even with a possible infusion of energy from Hobson.
10/29/2003
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DE Abraham out for Week 9
News:Newsday reports John Abraham has a strained right groin. He is out for Week 9 and will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis.
Analysis: Bryan Thomas will start in Abraham's place. LB Mo Lewis (hip) is questionable for Week 9.
News:Newsday notes John Abraham will likely miss the Week 9 game against the Giants with a groin injury.
Analysis: Even with a healthy Abraham, the Jets defense would not be recommended for Fantasy use against the Giants.
10/15/2003
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McGraw out two to four weeks
News: Jon McGraw will miss two to four weeks with a partially dislocated right shoulder, according to the New York Daily News. Tyrone Carter or Derek Pagel will replace McGraw.
Analysis: McGraw's absence further hurts a Jets' defense that was already a poor option from a Fantasy perspective.
9/23/2003
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John Abraham dinged up
News: The New York Daily News reports that Abraham (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against Dallas.
Analysis: Abraham is expected to play.
9/19/2003
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Donnie Abraham out for eight weeks
News: The New York Post reports that Abraham (fractured right shoulder) will not have surgery, but will have to wait at least eight weeks before returning.
Analysis: Ray Mickens will start in Abraham's absence. The Jets defense drops in value a bit with this injury.
9/16/2003
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Abraham out one month
News: According to the New York Daily News, CB Donnie Abraham (shoulder) is out at least one month. Abraham had an MRI exam and a CAT scan Monday, which revealed a fractured bone in his right shoulder.
Analysis: Nickel back Ray Mickens will step into the starting role in Abraham's absence.
9/4/2003
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FS Jon McGraw leaves game
News: McGraw left Thursday's game against Washington in the second quarter after a helmet-to-helmet hit on the Redskins' Robert Royal. He was able to walk off the field on his own power.
Analysis: McGraw was replaced by Tyrone Carter at the free safety position. McGraw was examined at halftime and it was determined he would not be able to return. His status for Week 2 against Miami is unclear. If he is unable to play, Tyrone Carter will likely start at free safety.
9/4/2003
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Jets defense starts strong
News: The Jets defense recorded two sacks during Washington's first drive on Thursday night. Shaun Ellis and John Abraham got through the Redskins' offensive line to sack Patrick Ramsey.
Analysis: The Jets defensive unit will be a respectable defensive unit in most Fantasy formats.
8/20/2003
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Albert Johnson to return kicks
News: Johnson has emerged as the kickoff returner.
Analysis: Johnson's status as kickoff returner does not alter the Fantasy value of the Jet's defensive/special teams unit.
8/18/2003
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Jets LB is hurting
News:Newsday reports Marvin Jones (hamstring) will miss at least one preseason game, if not longer. "I'd hate to tell you it's two, three or four weeks, because I don't know," coach Herman Edwards said yesterday. "We'll just go week-to-week with him."
Analysis: If Jones misses an extended period of time, the New York defensive unit might perform below expectations in Fantasy leagues. The Jets are expected to field a respectable unit in 2003.
7/25/2003
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Free agent impresses Jets
News: The New York Post says free agent wide receiver Albert Johnson is the leading candidate to take over as a kickoff returner for the departed Chad Morton. "Albert Johnson has been outstanding," special teams coach Mike Westhoff said. "I can't be any happier with what I've seen."
Analysis: The Jets should have a respectable defense/special teams unit this season, but Johnson has a past history of knee troubles and will have to prove he can stay healthy and productive.
7/23/2003
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LB Lewis feeling strong
News: According to the Newark Star-Ledger, Lewis is feeling stronger then ever after offseason hip surgery. "I feel like a different guy because of the surgery," Lewis said. "I was kidding some of the other players that I need to get the other hip done, too."
Analysis: Lewis is only worth considering in the late rounds of larger individual defender leagues. However, a healthy Lewis does improve the overall value of the Jets defense.
7/21/2003
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DT Josh Evans out half the season
News: According to the New York Daily News, Josh Evans (suspension) will miss at least half the season.
Analysis: Rookie Dewayne Robertson is expected to start at left defensive tackle in Evans' absence. The Jets also signed DT Chester McGlockton to add some depth on the line, but he is not expected to be ready until the end of the preseason because he is out of shape.
7/20/2003
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Robertson to sign with Jets
News: Dewayne Robertson has agreed in principle with the Jets on a contract, according to the New York Daily News. An official announcement is expected on Monday. He is expected to start in place of DL Josh Evans, who is expected to miss at least half of the season after violating the league's substance abuse policy.
Analysis: Robertson will help bolster a defensive unit which is above-average in Fantasy leagues. Robertson might be useful in middle to late rounds of leagues which allow individual defensive players.
7/16/2003
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Jets sign DT McGlockton
News: The New York have signed DT Chester McGlockton to a one-year deal. He will help ease the loss of DT Josh Evans, who is currently suspended indefinitely.
Analysis: McGlockton adds depth to the line, but his presence has little effect on the value of the Jets defense.
7/15/2003
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Jets add DT McGlockton
News: The Jets have signed free-agent defensive tackle Chester McGlockton.
Analysis: McGlockton should add experience to a respectable New York defensive unit. He might get a chance to start at nose tackle because of Josh Evans' suspension and the fact that rookie Dewayne Robertson remains unsigned.
