As Aaron Glenn embarks on his journey to build the New York Jets’ defense, he may look to bring some familiar faces with him from his time in Detroit. With the offseason fast approaching, here are 10 Detroit Lions defenders who could follow Glenn to the Jets this year:
Defensive Ends (DEs)
1. DE Marcus Davenport
Davenport, a free-agent signing by the Lions, was expected to provide a boost to their pass rush, but injuries limited his availability in 2024, with only two games played. However, his potential as a former first-round pick of the New Orleans Saints makes him a candidate Glenn may consider to add some depth to the Jets’ defensive line.
2. DE Pat O’Connor
O’Connor, who played 12 games for the Lions, recorded 18 tackles and a sack in 2024. A reliable rotational player, O’Connor’s contributions could be valuable to Glenn as he looks to solidify his defensive line in New York.
3. DE Al-Quadin Muhammad
Muhammad appeared in nine games for Detroit, contributing three sacks. His ability to generate pass rush, even in limited action, could make him a valuable depth piece for Glenn’s Jets defense.
4. DE John Cominsky
Cominsky missed the 2024 season after suffering a knee injury, but when healthy, he was an effective rotation player for the Lions. In 2022-23, Cominsky totaled 66 tackles, six sacks, and 20 quarterback hits. Glenn could look to reunite with him if Cominsky returns to full health.
Defensive Tackles (DTs)
5. DT Levi Onwuzurike
Onwuzurike was able to stay healthy for all 16 games in 2024, collecting 28 tackles, 1½ sacks, and a career-high 13 quarterback hits. As a second-round pick in 2021, Onwuzurike’s continued development could make him an attractive option for Glenn to add to the Jets’ defensive front.
6. DT Kyle Peko
Peko played in five games before suffering a torn pectoral muscle. While his season was cut short, his veteran presence and experience as a rotational tackle could be a valuable asset for Glenn as he builds depth on the Jets’ defensive line.
Linebackers (LBs)
7. LB Derrick Barnes
Barnes was off to his best start in his four-year career in 2024 before suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 3. Known for his potential and development, Barnes is a player Glenn has reportedly targeted in free agency. If healthy, he could be a key addition to the Jets’ linebacker corps.
Cornerbacks (CBs)
8. CB Carlton Davis III
Davis started 13 games for the Lions, recording two interceptions, 11 passes defensed, and 56 tackles. His solid performance makes him a potential target for Glenn. The question remains: will the Jets be able to bring Davis on board at a price they’re comfortable with?
9. CB Kindle Vildor
Vildor played in 17 games, stepping in as needed when other cornerbacks were injured. With 16 tackles and three passes defensed, Vildor showed he could contribute both in coverage and on special teams, making him a candidate for Glenn to add to the Jets’ depth chart.
Safety (S)
10. S Ifeatu Melifonwu
Melifonwu, a third-round pick in 2021, had a solid 2024 campaign, recording 33 tackles, three sacks, eight passes defensed, and two interceptions. He played in 17 games and showed his versatility as a rotational safety, which could make him an appealing target for Glenn’s defensive secondary.
As Glenn continues to retool the Jets’ defense, his familiarity with these players makes them prime candidates for his new roster. While not all of these players may join Glenn in New York, the likelihood is high that he’ll try to bring at least a few along as he works to strengthen the Jets’ defense for the upcoming season.
