Newman Shines in Jets' Preseason Win

The New York Jets played just one starting offensive lineman, center Joe Tippmann, in their preseason opener against the Washington Commanders. This was expected – New York’s lineup consists of established veterans, there’s some health risk scattered across the line, and the first preseason game rarely features first-team contributors for very long.

In doing so, the Jets got an extensive look at their second-team offensive line , headlined by first-round offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. The unit played well and, at times intersected by linemen further down the depth chart, did enough to come away with a 20-17 win.

Among the linemen providing quality play up front was guard Xavier Newman.

Newman, who started the game at left guard, played 25 snaps on Saturday. He stood out after flashing, particularly on the move, where he was a pulling guard on occasion and dominated a second-level defender on a screen pass. He also took snaps at right guard, too.

According to Pro Football Focus , Newman was New York’s third-best offensive player and its best lineman, largely due to his dominance on 11 run-blocking snaps.

Newman showcased requisite athleticism and strength, but it may be his versatility that eventually locks in his roster spot. Last year, the offensive line injuries mounted and the depth was inadequate, adding onto the endless problems on that side of the ball. Fashanu gives the Jets high-quality insurance at tackle, but the interior is much less fortified.

Related: Jets' Defensive Line Depth Strong vs. Commanders

Continuing on this track would make Newman a priority backup, and perhaps the first lineman off the bench at either guard spot. He certainly looked capable of it in the opener and will get additional chances to impress the coaching staff on Saturday, when New York takes on the Carolina Panthers.

Jets fans should be on the lookout to see how he fares next to Fashanu against a subpar Panthers unit.