New York Jets News

Home

Quizzes

Watch

Newsletter

Power Rankings

Projecting Jets Week 1 Starters Right Now

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Projecting Jets Week 1 Starters Right Now

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elijah Hamilton | Last updated Aug 18, 2026 12:14 PM ET

Add us as a preferred source on Google

After their Week 1 preseason matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the New York Jets are getting a clearer picture of what their 53-man roster and starters could look like heading into the 2026 NFL season.

The Jets did not fare well, falling 24-16. However, nearly every Jets starter got a taste of action on Friday.

As the preseason continues and the Jets inch closer to Week 1 of the regular season, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn will continue to evaluate his roster and decide who gets the starting nod.

Here’s an early projection of the Jets’ starters following their first preseason game.

Quarterback: Geno Smith

Geno Smith remains the projected starter entering the season, while Bailey Zappe and Cade Klubnik are currently battling for the backup quarterback job.

Running Back: Breece Hall

Hall enters the season as the featured back after his first 1,000-yard rushing campaign.

Fullback: Andrew Beck

The Jets will feature Andrew Beck at fullback to provide another option as a blocker and in the running game.

Wide Receiver: Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, Omar Cooper Jr.

Garrett Wilson remains the clear No. 1 wide receiver, while Omar Cooper Jr. and Adonai Mitchell provide additional playmaking ability. Isaiah Williams could push for a larger role following a strong training camp.

Tight End: Mason Taylor, Jeremy Ruckert

Mason Taylor headlines a young, talented tight end room. Jeremy Ruckert provides experience and versatility as the group’s veteran.

Offensive Line Starters: Olu Fashanu, Dylan Parham, Josh Myers, Joe Tippmann, Armand Membou

The Jets will lean on Joe Tippmann, Olu Fashanu, and Dylan Parham to protect Geno Smith this season and open up holes for Breece Hall. Armand Membou will continue his development entering his second season.

Defense

Dec 28, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) runs on a keeper against New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood (44) during the second quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Defensive End: Kingsley Enagbare, Will McDonald IV

The Jets will pair Will McDonald with Kingsley Enagbare on defense, giving the team two talented edge rushers capable of creating pressure.

Defensive Line: Harrison Phillips, T’Vondre Sweat, David Onyemata

T’Vondre Sweat has been cleared after missing the first few weeks of training camp due to a hamstring injury. He should provide a strong interior presence alongside David Onyemata and Harrison Phillips.

Linebacker: Jamien Sherwood, Demario Davis

The Jets reunited with Demario Davis this offseason, pairing the future Hall of Famer with Jamien Sherwood. Sherwood has a lot to prove this season as he continues to establish his role in Aaron Glenn’s defense.

Cornerback: Brandon Stephens, Nahshon Wright

The Jets will lean on Brandon Stephens to bounce back after a down season, as the team looks to improve after failing to record an interception last season. Nahshon Wright joins New York after a breakout season with the Chicago Bears.