The 2022 New York Jets are primed to start improving in the win column. Over the last two offseasons, the team has made moves to generate excitement. Some returning players are poised to be top players for the Jets in 2022. As a result of this big offseason, the Jets also have some veteran and rookie additions set to make a big impact this year. A projection of who the top five will be by the season’s end will be discussed in order.
Honorable mentions
The top three who just missed this top-five prediction were John Franklin-Myers, D.J. Reed, and Breece Hall. With Hall, expect an immediate impact. He will be featured in a big way and help Zach Wilson in his second year. Franklin-Myers was one of the Jets’ best players last year. This year, having more opportunities to rush from the inside will help him make more dominant plays. Reed was one of the Jets’ best free-agent signings. He is coming off a career year, has familiarity with the scheme, and is still 25 years old.
5. Sauce Gardner, CB
The Jets’ top draft pick has what it takes to be a fantastic rookie. Sauce Gardner has an incredible combination of talent and character. His height, length, and speed will help him make splash plays in coverage as a first-year player. He was immensely successful throughout his three years of college, and it should only continue in year one of his career with the Jets.
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4. George Fant, OT
George Fant was the Jets’ best player in 2021 and should rank toward the top once again this year. He is a terrific athlete and pass-blocker. His confidence should be greater than ever, coming off by far a career year. With more continuity in the scheme, with it being year two of the coaching staff, Fant should build on his great play in 2022.
3. Laken Tomlinson, LG
Laken Tomlinson was the Jets’ biggest free-agent signing this offseason. The 2021 Pro-Bowler has spent the last five years in the offensive system the Jets run. He is coming off the best season of his seven in the league to this point. Anticipate continued success from Tomlinson in year eight of his career. He will make his impact felt as a run blocker.
2. Quinnen Williams, DT
It is time for the Jets’ third overall pick to break out and be dominant in year four. Quinnen Williams has always had the talent to be one of the best. Now, he is healthy in year two of the scheme that fits him well. Also, he has the best surrounding talent on the defensive line to this point during his four years as a Jet. Williams should be a constant disruptor in 2022, looking for a big second contract with the Jets.
1. Elijah Moore, WR
Expect a big jump from Elijah Moore in year two with the Jets. The finish to his rookie year (six games, 34 catches, 459 yards, and five touchdowns) was a strong one, to say the least. With it being his second year in the league, Mike LaFleur’s scheme, and with Zach Wilson, that big production should continue. LaFleur recently stated Moore told him he wants to be the best. Moore has the talent to do so and will take a big step in 2022 with the Jets.