08/27/2023
Rookie making the most of his chances. While Aaron Rodgers was the main attraction Saturday night at MetLife, another new Jet continued making his presence felt. Sixth-round linebacker Zaire Barnes has been a standout in camp with his closing speed, and he might end up leading the NFL in preseason tackles. Barnes started the previous two games, making his impact felt in those, and he didn't wait too long against the Giants, stoning RB James Robinson on a 3rd-and-1 run for no gain. Later, Barnes couldn't get enough depth on his zone drop to stop a 23-yard pass to David Sills, but Barnes punished him with a big hit after the catch. Barnes' role, assuming he makes the team, is likely as a backup and special-teams performer. But the Jets might have struck gold with the 184th pick in the draft out of Western Michigan. Barnes has looked like a keeper this summer.