Home / Sports / Watts' Jets Future: Practice Squad to Roster Battle?
Watts' Jets Future: Practice Squad to Roster Battle?
12 Jul
Summary
- Eric Watts' pressure rate dropped significantly from 4.9% to 1.9% last season.
- Jets defense ranked poorly, prompting offseason upgrades in defensive line.
- Watts faces tough competition from several new and established defensive linemen.
The New York Jets' defensive line depth has intensified, putting defensive end Eric Watts' roster spot in jeopardy. After showing flashes in his rookie season in 2024 with five QB pressures, Watts' performance regressed in 2025, recording only one pressure in 52 pass rush opportunities. His pressure rate fell from 4.9% to 1.9% last season.
The Jets, who struggled defensively in 2025 allowing the fourth-most rush yards per game and ranking near the bottom with 26 sacks, have made substantial offseason improvements. General Manager Darren Mougey acquired defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat, signed defensive ends Joseph Ossai and Kingsley Enagbare, and drafted David Bailey.
This influx of talent places Watts behind established players like Will McDonald IV and Harrison Phillips, as well as new additions. Watts, who spent significant time on the practice squad in 2025 after playing 231 defensive snaps in 2024, may be competing for one of the final defensive lineman spots. A special teams role might be his best chance to make the 53-man roster, but he has yet to stand out this offseason.
