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Jets players to watch on defense in preseason Week 1 vs. Packers

Jets players to watch on defense in preseason Week 1 vs. Packers

USA Today08-08-2025
The New York Jets will open the preseason against the Green Bay Packers in Saturday's Week 1 exhibition showdown. With joint practices with the New York Giants scheduled for next week, Saturday represents the Jets' first opportunity of training camp to compete versus another team. It'll be a terrific measuring stick of progress for Aaron Glenn's rebuilding squad.
We've identified some Jets players on defense worth monitoring versus the Packers in Week 1 of the preseason.
DE Micheal Clemons
Four-year pro Micheal Clemons was recently praised by defensive coordinator Steve Wilks at practice. With Jermaine Johnson II on the PUP, the Jets need depth pass rushers to emerge opposite Will McDonald IV. Clemons needs to showcase some progress against the Packers.
DT Leonard Taylor III
Leonard Taylor III flashed in spurts last season. The 300 pound interior defensive lineman had two sacks and a pass-rushing grade of 69.9 from Pro Football Focus. Taylor is a candidate to play a notable amount of snaps next to Quinnen Williams this season.
DE Tyler Baron
Tyler Baron is a rookie fifth-round pass rusher. The former Miami standout is competing for rotational snaps with the likes of Eric Watts and Braiden McGregor. A good showing in the preseason would help Baron capture a back-end role on defense.
LB Francisco Mauigoa
The Jets are stellar at linebacker, which means it'll be difficult for rookie Francisco Mauigoa to get on the field this season. The more likely scenario sees the former Hurricanes defender capture a big-time role on special teams. Mauigoa should play in that phase versus the Packers.
CB Qwan'Tez Stiggers
Jets sophomore cornerback Qwan'Tez Stiggers has made some eye-opening plays at practice, including a recent interception. The former Canadian Football League (CFL) star is fighting for a roster spot. Stiggers should play in coverage a lot against Green Bay.
S Dean Clark
The Jets are deep at safety. Undrafted free agent rookie Dean Clark arrived with some buzz out of Fresno State after an impressive athletic showcase during the pre-draft process. Clark has been quiet at camp, and needs a big game versus the Packers.
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