The New York Jets have released their unofficial depth chart for Week 1. The list is “unofficial” since injuries or other circumstances can change things right up until game time.
But by and large, this is how the Jets plan to attack the Tennessee Titans in their Sept. 13 clash.
As expected, Cade Klubnik will be the backup quarterback to Geno Smith. The Jets have decided to go with the rookie based on his poise and practices, bypassing the more experienced Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe. They also passed on Will Levis, the former Tennessee Titan quarterback who came in for a workout, but was not signed.
There are also no surprises at running back. Breece Hall is the starter, with Braelon Allen the No. 2 and Isaiah Davis at three, presuming he overcomes a knee injury that sidelined him late in camp.
At receiver, Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell are the starters, with Omar Cooper Jr. expected to see some action in the slot. Isaiah Williams is the No. 4.
Tight ends find Mason Taylor as the No. 1, with Kenyon Sadiq as the No. 2, Jeremy Ruckert as the blocking tight end at No. 3, and Jelani Woods also expected to see some action in the jumbo formation. New offensive coordinator Frank Reich loves to use his tight ends in the short passing game, so this group should see some significant action.
The offensive line will have Olu Fashanu at left tackle, Dylan Parham at left guard, Josh Myers at center, Joe Tippmann at right guard, and Armand Membou at right tackle. This is a group that holds a lot of promise, and should help ignite a strong running game for the Jets.
On defense, look for T’Vondre Sweat, Jowon Briggs and Harrison Phillips on the interior line, with Will McDonald IV and David Bailey at edge. There’s also rookie Daryl Jackson for depth in what’s expected to be a rotating cast.
Veteran linebacker Demario Davis headlines that unit and is wearing the green dot as the signal-caller, with Jamien Sherwood as the other starter. Kiko Mauigoa, Marcelino McCrary-Ball and Trevin Wallace provide depth.
The secondary has Brandon Stephens and Azareye’h Thomas as the No. 1 at cornerback, with Jarvis Brownlee Jr. as the starting nickelback. Backups include Qwan’tez Stiggers, Nashshon Wright, and D’Angelo Ponds.
At safety, Minkah Fitzpatrick is the No. 1, with Dane Belton joining him on the first team. Backing them are Malachi Moore and Andre Cisco.
Blake Grupe is the kicker (for now) on special teams, with Austin McNamara punting. Thomas Hennessy is the long-snapper.
