The Jets starting defense did not play poorly but they gave up one huge play — an 80-yard bomb from Russell Wilson to Beaux Collins.
The play showed some sloppiness from the secondary with Collins first beating cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers, then safety Andre Cisco.
The secondary has some questions for the Jets.
Sauce Gardner did not play Saturday because of calf soreness.
It does not sound serious, but it’s always a concern when the best player on the team is injured.
Stiggers played in Gardner’s place and did have an interception, but he also gave up some big throws.
Brandon Stephens has played well in camp and made another nice play Saturday to break up a Wilson pass.
The biggest issue could be safety.
The Jaguars were happy to let Cisco walk in free agency, which makes you wonder.
Tony Adams had issues last season with the Jets and was benched.
Rookie Malachi Moore has promise but does not look ready to play immediately.
The Jets defense was missing some key pieces with Gardner, Will McDonald IV (knee) and Quinnen Williams (calf) all out Saturday.
It showed how thin their depth is, which could be an issue.
Rookie right tackle Armand Membou played OK in his three series but did surrender one pressure to Kayvon Thibodeaux that resulted in Justin Fields rushing a pass.
The Jets know Membou needs seasoning.
That’s why he played one more series than the rest of the starters.
Membou had some struggles during the joint practices this week but played better Saturday night. Membou will be tested quickly with T.J. Watt looming for the Steelers in Week 1.
The receivers who are battling for roster spots and bigger roles in the offense had mediocre nights.
Rookie Arian Smith had one clear drop and two other plays where he could have made the catch but did not. He rebounded to have two big catches.
Smith is going to make the team, but the idea that he can have a major role seems premature.
Brandon Smith, who has had a strong training camp, had more catches (five) than any other receiver, but most were of the short variety.
Jamaal Pritchett had two catches for 10 yards and had a drop.
Xavier Gipson exited in the first half with a shoulder injury. Quentin Skinner made a diving touchdown catch in the fourth quarter.
All of it leaves the Jets with some tough decisions next week on cutdown day and in plotting who will have roles in the offense.
One player who strengthened his case for a roster spot is running back/kick returner Kene Nwangwu.
He had a nice kick return to start the game for 38 yards.
He later starred in punt coverage, batting a ball before it crossed the goal line to pin the Giants inside their 10.
Nwangwu’s value is as a returner, but he also saw a lot of time at running back with Isaiah Davis out of the game because of a sprained ankle.
He carried the ball six times for 31 yards and has shown he should make the Jets feel comfortable carrying him as a fourth running back.
