Jets Dominate Giants in Preseason Finale As Cut Down to 53 Awaits

 JETS 10 - GIANTS 6 

The final score indicated a closer game than what few saw on Saturday night as the Jets and Giants tussled - starter free - in the wrap-up to the 2024 preseason (thank god). 

If there is one thing to gleam from the game it is this: the Jets are incredibly deep, and Robert Saleh and Joe Douglas have some very difficult choices to make as the roster cut-down to 53 looms on Tuesday. 

 On the defensive side of the ball: Leonard Taylor III, Braiden McGregor, and Takk McKinley all went off against the Giants offensive line and combined for six of the Jets' eight sacks of quarterback Tommy DeVito. 

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One could argue that Taylor should be a lock to make the 53. He has been impressive all summer, starting with the Washington game two weeks ago. McGregor and McKinley have also been good, and McKinley is a favorite of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich dating back to their days in Atlanta. 

With the Haason Reddick situation still unresolved, the Jets are going to need as many guys on defense who can get to the pass rusher as they can. They know what they have in veterans stalwarts like Quinnen and Quincy Williams, and Jermaine Johnson. 

 Will McDonald and Michael Clemens need to step up this year. But there is little doubt that any combo of Taylor, McGregor and McKinley are deserving - at least - of consideration for a roster spot. 

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As for Israel Abainkanda, he needed to impress in his last outing of the summer. With the emergence of Braelon Allen, Abinkanda is fighting for a spot on the roster. His 83-yards on nine carries, plus a 43-yard scamper for a touchdown could help, at least to make the practice squad. 

Quarterback: It's pretty clear that after three preseason games that Adrian Martinez is better than Andrew Peasley. One would think that Martinez could make the 53-man roster. As the Jets found out last year, one can never have enough quarterbacks on the roster. Martinez provides an elusiveness in the pocket and a solid enough arm to edge out Peasley. 

If Martinez doesn't make the 53, the Jets should instantly add him to the practice squad.  

Bear in mind that rookie Jordan Travis is likely to spend the season on IR as he continues to recover from a brutal knee injury last year with Florida State. 

A wild card here to watch out for is Mike White. The former Jet was released by Miami. Would the Jets consider bringing him back?