5 pending free agents who won't return to the Jets defense in 2026

To say the New York Jets' defense has not met expectations throughout 2026 would be an understatement. An undermanned unit has routinely been exposed by its opponents this season. Entering the Week 18 finale, the defense ranks 30th in points allowed (29.3) per game.

Head coach Aaron Glenn fired defensive coordinator Steve Wilks in-season, but the results haven't improved under interim Chris Harris. General manager Darren Mougey must make notable changes to the defense this offseason. A new DC will be hired by Glenn in the offseason.

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We've also identified five pending free agents on defense who shouldn't be re-signed by Mougey.

Andre Cisco, S

Andre Cisco was signed to a one-year contract by Mougey last offseason to serve as a temporary solution at safety. He performed poorly before going on season-ending IR with a torn pectoral muscle after eight games. Cisco allowed a near-perfect passer rating of 152.6 when targeted in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus.

Quincy Williams, LB

Quincy Williams has been with the Jets since 2021 and is currently playing out the final season of a three-year extension signed in 2023. He's routinely struggled in coverage this campaign, and it's worth noting the Jets traded his brother Quinnen during a blockbuster deadline deal. It's time for a fresh start.

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Tony Adams, S

Tony Adams has been a success story as a 2022 undrafted free agent. He went on season-ending IR in Week 15 after suffering a groin injury. With the Jets needing to revamp the safety room this offseason, it's possible that Adams and the organization mutually part ways.

Isaiah Oliver, DB

Jets Wire can't overstate the need to rehaul the majority of the secondary. Isaiah Oliver is another underperforming defensive back who will conclude 2025 on season-ending IR. Oliver was assigned a coverage grade of 49.1 when he was in the Jets' lineup.

Micheal Clemons, EDGE

Micheal Clemons was a failed fourth-round pick in 2022 by a previous regime. Clemons has athletic upside, but he's never managed to string together consistent performances throughout his four-year rookie contract. The Jets need to aim way higher at pass rusher this offseason.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 5 pending free agents who won't return to the Jets defense in 2026