The New York Jets have bolstered their practice squad by adding two notable veterans: safety Jalen Mills and linebacker Brandon Smith. These signings come as the Jets look to strengthen their depth across the defense, preparing for the grind of the NFL season and providing insurance against injuries.
Jalen Mills Brings Versatility to the Secondary
Jalen Mills, a well-known figure in NFL circles, has made a name for himself with his versatility and hard-nosed play. A seventh-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2016, Mills quickly exceeded expectations. He was a key contributor on the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2017, primarily playing cornerback. However, Mills has displayed his ability to switch between positions throughout his career, transitioning to safety when necessary.
At 6 feet tall and 191 pounds, Mills brings a unique combination of size and agility to the Jets’ secondary. His flexibility to play either safety or cornerback gives the Jets options in how they deploy him. Having spent the past two seasons with the New England Patriots, Mills comes to the Jets with ample experience, totaling 349 tackles, 47 pass deflections, and seven interceptions in his career. For a defense that has seen injuries in the secondary, Mills offers a reliable option should the need arise.
Brandon Smith Adds Depth to the Linebacker Unit
Brandon Smith, an undrafted free agent out of Penn State in 2022, adds depth to the Jets’ linebacker corps. Known for his athleticism and range, Smith stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 240 pounds. Although he went undrafted, Smith was highly regarded during his time at Penn State, where he recorded 132 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and four sacks over three seasons. His ability to cover ground and make plays in space stood out, earning him a spot on the Carolina Panthers’ roster last season.
While Smith primarily contributed on special teams during his time with the Panthers, the Jets see potential in him as a developmental linebacker. His athletic profile aligns with the modern NFL’s emphasis on speed and versatility at the linebacker position.
A Strategic Move for the Jets
Both signings reflect a strategic approach by the Jets to maintain a competitive edge through roster flexibility. Injuries are inevitable over the course of an NFL season, and having experienced players like Mills and promising talents like Smith available on the practice squad is crucial. Mills, in particular, could be called up to the active roster if any secondary players go down, while Smith could find a role on special teams or in a rotational linebacker role.
The Jets continue to show a commitment to shoring up their defense, a unit that has been a focal point of the team under head coach Robert Saleh. With Mills and Smith now in the fold, the Jets have strengthened their practice squad with a blend of experience and youth, putting themselves in a better position to handle the challenges of the season.
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