Among the bigger surprises in a disappointing 2025 season for the New York Jets was defensive tackle Jowon Briggs.
Acquired from the Cleveland Browns in what felt like a nothing-trade, Briggs outperformed expectations in 2025. The Jets’ improved defense in 2026 should help him take another step forward.
Briggs totaled 38 tackles and four sacks for Aaron Glenn’s defense as a rotational player. Pro Football Focus credited him with generating 38 quarterback pressures. Briggs was very effective on a defense that lacked impact players.
The Jets have made sweeping changes to their defensive personnel. They’ve acquired new starters like T’Vondre Sweat and Minkah Fitzpatrick via trade. Joseph Ossai, David Onyemata, Kingsley Enagbare, Demario Davis, and Nahshon Wright were among Darren Mougey’s notable free agent signings. David Bailey and D’Angelo Ponds should immediately contribute as rookies.
The Jets should rush the passer more effectively as a result of their additions. They should definitely play tighter coverage as well, giving the defensive line more time to penetrate the backfield. That should be useful to a player like Briggs.
Briggs displayed short-area quickness and power in 2025. The Jets will do a better job supporting him in 2026 with more high-quality starters.
Briggs should have another productive campaign.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets improved defense could be big for DT Jowon Briggs
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Justin Melo, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
