By continuing to utilize the 3-4 defense, the Jets will be able to maintain some consistency on a team that’s about to go through a major overhaul. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will get to comb through the roster for players already familiar with that defense and properly evaluate the in-house talent before dipping into free agency and the draft.
The roles of many defenders on the Jets will be maintained because of this decision. Players who looked like bad fits in the 4-3 suddenly appear much more valuable for the future of the franchise and allow New York flexibility in filling positions of need come March.
With that being said, here are the top four Jets who benefit most by staying in the 3-4.
OLB Jordan Jenkins
One of the biggest concerns about a potential transition to the 4-3 defense was where Jenkins would fit in. Jenkins excelled as a pass rushing outside linebacker in 2018, wracking up a team-high seven sacks. However, his skill set does not translate to a 4-3 scheme.
Now, it looks like Jenkins will maintain his role on the team as he heads into the third year of his rookie contract. Continuity is key for Jenkins’ development. Sticking with a defense he understands and performs well in will only make him a more valuable asset for the Jets moving forward.
DE Leonard Williams
It would have been an interesting experiment to see Leonard Williams transition into a 4-3 defensive lineman. Now he’ll get another year to build on his skill set playing in a 3-4 defense. The Jets still need speed up front and Williams will be able to continue to give them that at defensive end.
Gregg Williams will have to find a way to unlock Williams’ potential after two down years. Keeping him in the 3-4 might be the first step in helping Williams reach new heights in 2019.
OLB Frankie Luvu
Luvu had flashes of potential throughout his rookie season, but could have seen all that development go to waste if the Jets switched defensive schemes.
Similarly to Jenkins, Luvu fits as a 3-4 linebacker but is not a fit in a 4-3 defense. By sticking with the same defense from a year ago, Luvu will get the opportunity to build on his rookie season in 2019.
DE Henry Anderson
Anderson was a revelation for the Jets in 2018, but it was almost a foregone conclusion he wouldn’t be brought back if the Jets went with the 4-3 defense. Now that that is no longer the case, Anderson could slide right back into his same role with Williams at defensive end if the Jets want to re-sign him.
Anderson showed quickness and speed off the line and an amazing disruptive nature throughout the 2018 season. With Gregg Williams commanding the defense, Anderson could turn into a nice piece for a fraction of the price.
