Jets welcome back former underrated star as part of cool program

When the Rex Ryan defense was terrorizing opposing offenses in early 2010’s, it was Darrelle Revis that got most of the accolades for his play. And rightfully so, as he was able to shut down half the field and hold some of the best wide receivers in the game to miniscule numbers. But he wasn’t the only reason for the dominance the Jets had on defense.

On the other side of the field, the Jets employed Antonio Cromartie who didn’t get all the attention Revis got but was nonetheless an important part of Rex Ryan’s man-to-man defensive style.

And now Cromartie is back in New York, but this time as a coach.

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Cromartie announced on his X account that he will be joining the Jets as a coach as part of the Bill Walsh internship during their training camp.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity I have to do the Bill Walsh internship with [the Jets] for fall camp,” Cromartie wrote. “Ready [to] learn as much as I can during this time. Thank you Coach Saleh and your staff for this opportunity!!!”

The Bill Walsh coaching fellowship is a way for the league to try and allow former players the chance to get into the league as a coach. Designed as a vocational tool to increase the number of full-time NFL minority coaches, all 32 NFL clubs participate each year. The program's objective is to use NFL clubs' offseason workout programs and minicamps to give talented coaches opportunities to observe, participate, gain experience, and ultimately gain a full-time NFL coaching position.

It's the second time the Pro Bowl cornerback will be allowed to help the Jets sideline during camp. Cromartie was a coaching intern under Todd Bowles in 2018. He has also previously served as a graduate assistant under Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M.

A first-round pick in 2006, Cromartie played 162 games with 137 starts through 2016 for the Chargers, Jets, Cardinals, and Colts, recording 31 career interceptions with three pick-sixes. He led the league with 10 interceptions in 2007.

The now 40-year-old played for the Jets from 2010-2013 and returned for the 2015 season. In 78 games for the club, he recorded 63 passes defensed with 13 interceptions — making the Pro Bowl in 2012 and 2013.

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