The New York Jets have a long-term answer at a key position, according to one NFL analyst.
While the New York Jets aren't expected to make the playoffs this coming season, that doesn't mean that the franchise can't start building for the future.
2026 is seen as more of a stepping-stone year for the organization, with the coaching staff and front office trying to find long-term answers across the roster. New York hasn't made the playoffs since 2010, and while this drought has been long, there is some hope for the future.
There is talent on this Jets roster, and the defense could be one of the strengths of the team. Under head coach Aaron Glenn, there is pride in the defensive unit, and New York could be fun to watch this year.
ESPN NFL analyst Seth Walder provided a bold prediction for each team entering the new season. For the Jets, Walder has them signing defensive tackle Jowon Briggs to a contract extension, giving them a long-term answer at the position.
"The Jets will sign defensive tackle Jowon Briggs to a contract extension before the end of the season. The Jets have depth at defensive tackle after acquiring T'Vondre Sweat and David Onyemata in the offseason (and still have Harrison Phillips on the roster), but Briggs, acquired in a trade with the Browns last August, has flashed real promise," Walder wrote.
Briggs played in 17 games for the Jets last season, and he was a real bright spot for this group. The defensive tackle recorded 38 total tackles, 10 quarterback hits, and four sacks for New York.
The former seventh-round draft pick has quickly made waves with the Jets in just one year with the team. But he could be earning himself a nice contract extension if that performance continues.
"Last season he ranked in the top 12 in both pass rush win rate and run stop win rate at defensive tackle. He can be a long-term solution for the Jets along the interior," Walder wrote.
Playing alongside T'Vondre Sweat and Harrison Phillips could allow Briggs to produce even more in 2026. But the other pieces on the Jets defense should give him more room to work.
New York drafted edge rusher David Bailey with the number two overall pick in this year's NFL Draft. Having someone like Bailey take pressure off Briggs could open him up to put up even better numbers.
The Jets, as a whole, may be a work in progress, but players like Briggs are the cornerstone of building a sustained winner. New York will open the new season against the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 13.
