Jets Overhaul Defense With Free Agent Signings

Aaron Glenn's unit is now loaded up with veteran leaders.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The New York Jets have completely revamped their defense in the opening hours of free agency, trading for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and signing four veteran free agents - linebacker Demario Davis, edge rusher Joseph Ossai, edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare, and defensive tackle David Onyemata. These additions are aimed at addressing the Jets' defensive woes from last season, which included setting NFL records for fewest interceptions and takeaways.

Why it matters

The Jets' defense was one of the worst in team history last season, and these moves are an attempt by new defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey to ensure that performance is not repeated. The additions of veteran leaders like Davis and Onyemata, as well as talented pass rushers in Ossai and Enagbare, should significantly improve the Jets' defense and make them more competitive in the AFC East.

The details

The Jets traded a 7th-round pick to the Miami Dolphins to acquire safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. In free agency, they signed linebacker Demario Davis to a 2-year, $22 million deal, edge rusher Joseph Ossai to a 3-year, $34.5 million contract, edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare to a 1-year, $10 million deal, and defensive tackle David Onyemata to a 1-year, $10.5 million contract. Davis, who previously played for the Jets, will likely take over as the defensive captain and play a key leadership role. Ossai and Enagbare are expected to provide a boost to the pass rush, while Onyemata is viewed as an excellent run-stopping defensive tackle.

  • On Monday morning, the Jets traded a 7th-round pick for Minkah Fitzpatrick.
  • When free agency began at noon on Monday, the Jets quickly agreed to contracts with the four veteran free agents.

The players

Minkah Fitzpatrick

An American football safety who was traded from the Miami Dolphins to the New York Jets.

Demario Davis

A 37-year-old linebacker who previously played for the Jets and is now returning on a 2-year, $22 million contract after spending the last 8 seasons with the Saints.

Joseph Ossai

A 25-year-old edge rusher who signed a 3-year, $34.5 million contract with the Jets after playing for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kingsley Enagbare

A 26-year-old edge rusher who signed a 1-year, $10 million contract with the Jets after playing for the Green Bay Packers.

David Onyemata

A 33-year-old defensive tackle who signed a 1-year, $10.5 million contract with the Jets after playing for the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.