Gang Green Nation
Catching up with ex-Jets in the AFC
Now that the season is basically over, it’s time to update you on former New York Jets players and how they’ve been faring with their current teams. We looked at offensive players from AFC teams on Monday and today we move on to look at defensive players from the AFC. We’ll move on to review NFC players and special teamers over the next week or so.
As ever, this list is intended to be exhaustive, but if we missed anyone, let us know in the comments.
Cornerback Brandon Codrington was obviously acquired for his return abilities but he did see some action on defense too. He ended up with nine tackles and a pass defensed in 69 defensive snaps.
Defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson was picked up after he was cut by the Browns. He had eight tackles and a sack in seven games in a reserve role.
Defensive back Elijah Campbell was on the roster all year but is now a free agent. He played in every game, starting one, and made six tackles in 76 defensive snaps.
Safety Marcus Maye started three games earlier in the season but his role reduced and he was released late in the season. He ended up with 30 tackles and a pass defensed in 11 games.
Also: Defensive end Wyatt Ray was released from injured reserve.
New England was one of three AFC teams that had no former Jets players on defense this season.
Cleveland Browns:
Defensive tackle Shelby Harris played an important role for the Browns, as he started 13 games and had 37 tackles, 1.5 sacks, two passes defensed and a forced fumble. He remains under contract.
Another defensive tackle, Quinton Jefferson, didn’t have such a big role as he was released after recording just six tackles and a sack in five games.
Edge Elerson Smith spent some time on the main roster but ended up on the practice squad and signed a futures deal after the season. He recorded two tackles in two games.
Defensive lineman Mike Dwumfour ended up on the main roster and is a pending exclusive rights free agent. He played one game but only saw action on five defensive snaps.
Also: Cornerback Justin Hardee was released from the practice squad and safety Trey Dean was added to the practice squad late in the year and signed a futures deal after the season. Neither saw action for the Browns in 2024.
The Steelers didn’t retain any defensive ex-Jets during the season but did sign defensive tackle Domenique Davis to a futures deal after the season.
Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins got off to a good start as he recorded 18 tackles and a sack in seven starts. However, he missed the rest of the year after first injuring his hamstring and then suffering an illness. He remains under contract for 2025.
Safety and “Mr. Irrelevant” Jaylen Key was a late-season...
