The Jets did not extend tenders to restricted free agents James Burgess, Arthur Maulet and Bennett Jackson, according to the New York Post’s Brian Costello.
All three defenders become unrestricted free agents and are free to sign with anyone. Burgess and Maulet were two players who stepped up amid team injuries and excelled in starting roles in 2019, while Jackson was primarily a depth piece.
After Avery Williamson tore his ACL, Burgess was brought in as a camp body who knew Gregg Williams’ defensive scheme from their days in Cleveland. Burgess forced to step-up after injuries to C.J. Mosley, Albert McClellan, Blake Cashman and Neville Hewitt decimated New York’s middle linebacker depth.
Burgess was dominant in the second half, recording 69 tackles and an interception in New York’s final eight games. He finished the season with 80 tackles, making a big contribution in the middle for Gang Green.
On Monday, ESPN’s Rich Cimini reported that Maulet would not be tendered, but added that the Jets have interest in bringing him back at the right price.
Starting in six games, the corner played a significant role down the stretch in the Jets secondary. Maulet saw 331 defensive snaps in lieu of Trumaine Johnson and Darryl Roberts, who both battled injuries throughout the season.
As for Jackson, the defensive back split his 2019 season between the Ravens and Jets. He didn’t make a major contribution but served as a depth piece when Jamal Adams went down with an ankle injury and played sparingly on special teams.
All three players can still be in the Jets’ future roster plans. Each is eligible to be signed by Gang Green as unrestricted free agents.
