As Aaron Glenn looks to build the New York Jets’ defense, he may target some familiar players from his time with the Detroit Lions. With the offseason approaching, here are ten Detroit Lions defenders who might follow Glenn to the Jets in the coming year:
Defensive Ends (DEs)
1. Marcus Davenport (DE)
Davenport, signed as a free agent by the Lions, was expected to enhance their pass rush, but injuries limited his action to just two games in 2024. Despite his lack of playtime, his potential as a former first-round pick of the New Orleans Saints makes him a possible depth addition to the Jets’ defensive line under Glenn’s leadership.
2. Pat O’Connor (DE)
O’Connor played in 12 games for the Lions, recording 18 tackles and one sack in 2024. As a dependable rotational player, his experience could be valuable to Glenn as he bolsters the Jets’ defensive line.
3. Al-Quadin Muhammad (DE)
Muhammad appeared in nine games for Detroit, racking up three sacks. Even with limited opportunities, his ability to generate pressure could make him an intriguing depth option for Glenn’s Jets defense.
4. John Cominsky (DE)
After missing the 2024 season due to a knee injury, Cominsky was a solid contributor for the Lions in the previous year, tallying 66 tackles, six sacks, and 20 quarterback hits. If he returns to full health, Glenn may look to reunite with him to strengthen the Jets’ defensive line.
Defensive Tackles (DTs)
5. Levi Onwuzurike (DT)
Onwuzurike stayed healthy throughout the 2024 season, registering 28 tackles, 1½ sacks, and a career-high 13 quarterback hits. As a second-round pick from 2021, his continued growth could make him an appealing addition to Glenn’s defensive front in New York.
6. Kyle Peko (DT)
Peko, who played five games before a torn pectoral muscle cut his season short, has veteran experience and could be a valuable depth piece for the Jets, adding strength to their interior defensive line.
Linebackers (LBs)
7. Derrick Barnes (LB)
Barnes was having a standout 2024 campaign until a season-ending knee injury derailed his progress. Known for his upside and improvement, Barnes has reportedly caught Glenn’s attention as a free-agent target. If he recovers fully, he could be a significant addition to the Jets’ linebacker group.
Cornerbacks (CBs)
8. Carlton Davis III (CB)
Davis, who started 13 games for Detroit, had two interceptions, 11 passes defensed, and 56 tackles in 2024. His solid performances may make him an attractive option for Glenn, though the Jets’ ability to meet his financial demands remains a potential obstacle.
9. Kindle Vildor (CB)
Vildor played in all 17 games for Detroit, stepping in whenever other cornerbacks were injured. He contributed with 16 tackles and three passes defensed, showcasing his ability to help in coverage and special teams, making him a useful depth addition for Glenn’s secondary.
Safety (S)
10. Ifeatu Melifonwu (S)
Melifonwu, a 2021 third-round pick, had a strong 2024 season with 33 tackles, three sacks, eight passes defensed, and two interceptions. His versatility as a rotational safety could make him an appealing target for Glenn as he shapes the Jets’ defensive backfield.
As Glenn works to strengthen the Jets’ defense, his prior connections with these players make them strong candidates to join him in New York. While not all of these players may make the move, it’s likely that Glenn will attempt to bring at least a few of them to help fortify the Jets’ defense for the upcoming season.
