Jets battle at DT opposite Quinnen Williams one to watch at training camp
Last season, it was Javon Kinlaw and Solomon Thomas who played the most snaps opposite Williams inside. Both were on one-year contracts, and neither player was retained this offseason. Kinlaw cashed in via a three-year, $45 million contract with the Washington Commanders in free agency, and Thomas signed a two-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys.
The initial favorite to replace them is Derrick Nnadi. New general manager Darren Mougey signed Nnadi to a one-year contract this offseason. The experienced defensive tackle is a nine-year pro who has played a rotational role for the Kansas City Chiefs throughout his entire career, appearing in 115 games and winning three Super Bowls.
Some of the other intriguing options inside include Phidarian Mathis and Leonard Taylor III. Mathis was a 2022 second-round pick of the Commanders who didn't meet expectations in Washington. He suffered several injuries in D.C., and was claimed off waivers by the Jets in December. Taylor showed promise last season as a rookie undrafted free agent who played his way into the lineup.
And then there's Byron Cowart and Jay Tufele. Tufele is a nose tackle who's bounced around the league, and Cowart is a veteran journeyman who most recently played for the Chicago Bears.
Nnadi offers a veteran presence next to Williams. Taylor flashed upside last season, and Mathis is an intriguing bounce-back project with untapped potential and talent. It'll be worth monitoring the position battle at defensive tackle throughout training camp.
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