The New York Jets’ struggles in the secondary were well documented last season.
The team made unfortunate NFL history by recording zero interceptions, an unfathomable occurrence. They also allowed a league-high 36 passing touchdowns and ranked dead-last in passer rating allowed (110.9).
Naturally, New York responded by revamping the secondary this offseason. One of general managerDarren Mougey’s biggest acquisitions was trading for veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Fitzpatrick was acquired from the division rival Miami Dolphins in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round pick. The Jets then quickly signed him to a three-year, $40 million contract extension.
Fitzpatrick should have a swift impact on this Jets secondary. The five-time Pro Bowl safety should bring a level of leadership, communication, and experience that was lacking following the Sauce Gardner trade.
This Jets secondary needs a stabilizer, and Mougey identified Fitzpatrick as the ideal candidate.
A nine-year pro, Fitzpatrick is still playing high-level football. The former Alabama standout registered 82 tackles and six pass breakups for the Dolphins last season. He’s versatile enough to play all over Aaron Glenn’s defense.
Fitzpatrick brings much-needed leadership to this Jets defensive backfield. Expect them to be a much-improved unit. Fitzpatrick will be at the forefront of improved results in East Rutherford.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Minkah Fitzpatrick will help transform Jets secondary
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Justin Melo, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
