Quinton Jefferson is making a return to the AFC East. The New York Jets announced on Thursday that they have signed the veteran defensive lineman, adding an experienced producer along the defensive front. SNY’s Connor Hughes was the first to report that a deal was imminent (Twitter link).
Jefferson has played for three teams, but is best known for his time with the Seattle Seahawks. He began his career in the Pacific Northwest, operating as a starter in 2018 and 2019. His production to finish out his rookie contract earned him subsequent deals with the Bills and Raiders, form whom he enjoyed additional steady campaigns. A career-best 47 tackles in Vegas helped guide Jeffterson back to the Emerald City ahead of the 2022-23 season, though that reunion didn’t entirely go according to plan.
Indeed, Seattle ended up releasing the 30-year-old lineman in a March cost-cutting move, this even after he set a new personal mark with 5.5 sacks and six tackles for loss during the campaign (despite logging the lowest snap share of his career since 2017). The cap savings helped the team sign Dre’Mont Jones to provide an upgrade along the defensive front, particularly in the pass-rushing department.
Last season's numbers point to the Maryland alum being at least an effective rotational player with the Jets in the fall. While All-Pro Quinnen Williams occupy's the heart of Gang Green's defensive front, Jefferson could step into the role vacated by free agent departure Sheldon Rankins.
While Jefferson is now in the New York fold, Hughes tweets that the Jets remain in on Al Woods, who like Jefferson has had multiple stints in Seattle. Woods has a visit lined up with New York, though a reunion with the Seahawks also may not be off the table.
Hughes also names former Lion and Ram DL A’Shawn Robinson as a player to watch should New York add another depth piece to their line.
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