One of the New York Jets’ best signings in free agency was strong safety Jordan Whitehead. The Jets had to sign an experienced veteran at the safety position. Whitehead is a young player at 25-years-old. He has played four NFL seasons. Whitehead has started at least 11 games each year of his career and played in 59 total games. Whitehead is also a recent Super Bowl champion.
This week, Sam Monson of PFF put together four different tiers of safety rankings. The tiers were coverage-free safety, box strong safety, matchup slot, and all-around. In the box strong safety category, Whitehead was ranked second.
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The Jets added a talented defensive back with upside:
It is impressive recognition for the Jets’ big new addition. The skillset Whitehead has is an ideal one for a safety that routinely lines up in the box. He is a physical, tough player, who makes his presence felt over the middle, in the backfield, and sideline-to-sideline. Whitehead offers great versatility. He can stop the run, play in zone coverage underneath, and pressure the quarterback. He offers all the qualities needed to play the strong safety position.
Statistically, Whitehead has been consistent across the board. He has 22 tackles for loss over his four-year career, with at least four each season. He has 25 in his career in terms of passes defended, with at least four every year. Whitehead has totaled at least 69 tackles every season of his NFL career. Lastly, he has recorded two interceptions each of the last two years.
Whitehead is an exciting young addition for the Jets. He provides a significant upgrade compared to what the Jets had at safety a year ago. Whitehead should just be getting started entering his prime considering his younger age. Hopefully, Whitehead will be a core asset to the Jets’ defense for years to come.