ClutchPoints
After another year of turbulence and turnover, the New York Jets are once again pressing the reset button. This time, though, there’s a clear sense of direction—and a new head coach with a focused vision. The 2025 season won’t just be about making the playoffs. It’ll be about reestablishing the team’s identity. That identity is already starting to take shape through a rookie class loaded with grit, toughness, and untapped potential. For several veterans on the roster, the pressure is on—because the kids are coming, and they’re not waiting around.
Hiring Aaron Glenn as new head coach and committing to Justin Fields at quarterback were defining moves in what became a highly strategic 2025 offseason for the Jets. Glenn brings a no-nonsense leadership style and defensive pedigree. Meanwhile, Fields—finally out of the shadows of uncertainty—has been handed the keys to the offense. The team expects to be run-heavy. With limited proven pass-catching options beyond Garrett Wilson, the passing game will require both patience and new playmakers to emerge.
The offseason saw the departures of key veterans DJ Reed and Morgan Moses. However, general manager Darren Mougey responded by drafting Armand Membou and Azareye’h Thomas—players expected to start immediately. Although New York still lacks a championship-caliber roster on paper, the front office’s moves hint at long-term promise. The Jets are now anchored by cornerstone players like Sauce Gardner, Quinnen Williams, Breece Hall, and Garrett Wilson. They are also betting on rookies who embody toughness, intelligence, and versatility. As the team tries to reshape its future, a few veteran players find themselves facing stiff competition—and possibly losing their grip on starting roles.
Here we’ll try to look at the New York Jets veteran players whose roles will be pushed by rookies in the 2025 NFL season.
When the Jets used the No. 7 overall pick to select Membou, it wasn’t just about upgrading the offensive line. It was a clear signal that they’re building this offense from the trenches out. The Missouri standout has been praised for his elite physical traits and sound technique.
That’s a tough pill for Chukwuma Okorafor to swallow. Originally brought in as a steady veteran presence, Okorafor now looks more like a bridge player than a long-term solution. Membou is already seeing snaps with the first-team offense during OTAs. It’s not hard to see why. His blend of size (6’6, 325 lbs), footwork, and aggression makes him an ideal fit for a run-first team trying to give Fields both time and a cleaner pocket.
Unless Okorafor delivers a flawless camp and preseason, Membou could seize the starting job early. For a team that desperately needs identity up front, this feels like a transition that’s only a matter of time.
Tight end has been a black hole for the Jets for decades. Mickey Shuler in 1988 was the last New York tight end to make a Pro Bowl....
