Three Biggest Non-Rookie Unknowns on New York Jets' Roster

The New York Jets know what they have when it comes to starters such as defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, cornerback Sauce Gardner and wide receiver Garrett Wilson, but such is not the case for every member of the Jets' projected 53-man roster.

In addition to a list of unproven rookies, there are multiple players in the mix after not logging a single snap for the Jets in 2023. Between offseason additions and veterans coming off injuries, New York will rely upon multiple unknowns this season.

In particular, there are three projected non-rookie starters who have yet to make a regular season appearance with the Jets. While New York has an idea of what it can expect from these veterans, all three have something to prove.

SS Chuck Clark

The Jets traded for Clark in 2023, but the former Baltimore Ravens ' starter tore his ACL during the final OTAs practice and never saw the field.

"I'm extremely excited about the group, the addition of Chuck Clark back now that he's healthy, we were excited about him going into last year," said Jets' defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich at the start of OTAs Phase 3 this past May.

Although Clark has had success at the NFL level, he hasn't played in a game since 2022 and Baltimore was willing to trade him away for a late-round draft pick. The Jets are taking a leap of faith by suggesting he can seamlessly step in and replace Jordan Whitehead's production at strong safety.

DE Haason Reddick

Reddick has been a sacks machine the last four years of his career, but there's no telling how he'll fit in along the Jets' defensive line rotation.

"I spoke to him over the weekend, appreciate the dialogue. He's in a really good place mentally, working his tail off like we already know, he's choosing to sit out this one unexcused," said head coach Robert Saleh with Reddick failing to attend mandatory June minicamp.

Reddick, who apparently wants a pay raise, will have to adjust to a new defensive scheme once he finally shows up to work.

WR Mike Williams

The Jets signed Williams after the Los Angeles Chargers released their former first-round selection. The WR2 is coming an ACL tear suffered in Week 3 last year.

"He's on the same timeline that Breece [Hall] had. They're very similar injuries, same time frame. He knows he's got a road to trek, but at the same time, if he does it the right way, we're very confident we'll have him ready for Week 1," said Saleh shortly after New York inked Williams in March.

Although Williams may be available for the season opener, it may take him longer than expected to fully regain his pre-injury form.