3 matchups to watch during Jets-Giants joint practices

Aaron Glenn and the New York Jets got off to an excellent start in their preseason debut. The 30-10 beatdown in Lambeau Field showed just an inkling of what the organization could look like under their new coaching staff.

The next stop on Glenn’s debut preseason tour is a showdown with the Jets’ cross-town rivals, the New York Giants. Before that, the Jets and G-Men are preparing for a home-and-home joint practice.

Both New York football teams have endured miserable times over the last few years.

But as they gear up for a set of practices together, they have some matchups that should excite fans over the next few days.

Jets-Giants Joint Practice Matchups

Despite coming off a five-win season, there is still plenty of talent on the Jets roster.

That makes the next two days of practices a great chance to show how much Gang Green has separated itself from its East Rutherford rivals. The Giants aren’t devoid of talent either.

It’s what makes the next few days so important for each team – and why some of the matchups will be must-watch over the next 48 hours.

Abdul Carter vs. Jets OL

The Jets’ offensive line was excellent in their preseason opening contest. Now, they’ll have to go up against the top rookie edge rusher in the game. Third overall pick Abdul Carter has been almost unblockable throughout training camp.

In Big Blue’s preseason opener, even the Buffalo Bills’ four-time Pro Bowl tackle Dion Dawkins struggled with the Penn State phenom.

The next few days will be an excellent test for Gang Green’s young line to show they can handle top edge rushers like Carter. It will also be a good chance for the rookie to show just how good he is against a former college teammate (Olu Fashanu) and a fellow top-10 pick from the 2025 class (Armand Membou).

Justin Fields vs. Giants secondary

If there’s a major weakness on the Giants, it’s in their secondary. Paulson Adebo was added to the unit, but there are still major questions across the board.

It’s the perfect chance for Justin Fields and the Jets passing offense to excel.

Whether it’s Garrett Wilson, Josh Reynolds, or the young receivers, Gang Green should be able to make big plays throughout the next two days of practice. Coming off an impressive preseason showing, the next few days are a golden opportunity to gain even more confidence in Fields and the passing game.

Malik Nabers vs. Sauce Gardner

Nabers had the greatest rookie receiving season in Giants history. This week, he’ll be able to go up against one of the best cornerbacks in the game in Jets’ All-Pro Sauce Gardner.

The matchup between Gardner and Nabers is going to be one of the more exciting matchups football fans see during the preseason. Both players are at the height of their game and should make plenty of splash plays in their own right.

This will be fun to watch over the next few days.