Will the New York Jets’ recent cornerback acquisition, Jarvis Brownlee Jr., play in week five against the Dallas Cowboys?
After a brutal 0-4 start to the 2025 NFL season, the New York Jets may receive some assistance on the defensive side of the ball prior to the team’s week five contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
Last week, Jets general manager Darren Mougey decided to trade for Tennessee Titans cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. in order to help head coach Aaron Glenn’s defensive issues this season. Outside of star playmaker Sauce Gardner, New York’s cornerback room lacks a second player to assist the defensive efforts for New York.
Despite being traded to the Jets before the team’s week four contest against the Miami Dolphins, Brownlee did not make an appearance in the contest due to a lingering ankle injury he sustained in week two. However, when speaking to the media on Wednesday, Glenn told reporters that he is "looking to get him out on the field and see what he can do for us."
“I like [Jarvis’] skill set of being very tough, very physical,” Glenn said. “He fits our DNA. He’s flexible in regards to being able to play inside as well as outside, so we’re going to see exactly how things go. [We’re] Looking to get him out on the field and see what he can do for us.”
Brownlee, a former fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, made his presence felt during his rookie season with the Titans, tallying six pass breakups and one interception in his first season. Unfortunately for the 24-year-old standout, the Titans’ crowded cornerback room prompted the organization to move off the talented defensive back.
Now, Brownlee has the opportunity to become a key piece to the Jets' defense this season, as his physical style of play is perfect for Glenn’s aggressive style on defense.
Mougey signed veteran cornerback Brandon Stephens this past offseason, but the 27-year-old has yet to solidify himself amongst New York’s secondary unit.Luckily for the struggling franchise, Brownlee seems optimistic heading into week five, as he told reporters this week that he is “ready to rock.”
"They like to say a lot of DBs don't like to hit, well, come watch my tape," Brownlee said. "I love to put it on tape, but it's just something that I take pride in, just not missing the tackle. And I think it puts fear in opponent's eyes on their side of the ball to see a guy that's 190 coming to hit an O-lineman full speed and showing no fear. So I take pride in that, and I think it brings a bit. I think I can help this team out big with just my mentality, with going into how I play. And yeah, I think they feel it, too. I feel it, too. And I'm just ready to rock."
With Jets’ slot cornerback Michael Carter II not practicing this week due to a concussion, Brownlee could fill his role when New York takes on the Cowboys in week five. The second-year standout was a full participant in practice this week, leading to him likely being available this week to make his debut with the Jets.