The New York Jets have begun to ramp up their preseason practice and boost the intensity, which has led to some players falling behind.
In particular, fourth-year cornerback Brandin Echols has struggled to stay with the receivers since the transition took place. Echols had a solid showing during the first preseason game against the Washington Commanders, yet still struggled with certain aspects of play. If Echols is not able to pick up the play of his game moving forward, he may risk losing a spot on the roster over eager young cornerbacks.
New York Jets Cornerback Brandin Echols Aiming to Improve Upon Lackluster Season
With the New York Jets entering in a new wave of youth and talent, many players are being released and let back into the world of NFL free agency. The Jets are committed to making themselves into a serious, competitive team this upcoming season, and that can only be done with the best of talent. For one defensive back, being cut could become a real possibility given his current performances.
Fourth-year cornerback and former Kentucky Wildcats defender Brandin Echols has had a wild ride thus far in the NFL. From starting as a viral sensation over his flop as a Wildcat, to starting on an injured Jets defense as a rookie. Since his most successful season in 2021 however, Echols has seen a steep decline in his playing time and continues to struggle with the same issues he dealt with in previous seasons.
With just one-year remaining on his contract, this could be a crucial time for Echols as he attempts to prove that he is a capable defensive back.
Echols Struggling to Stay With Faster, Bigger Receivers Despite Physical Play
One of the trends throughout preseason and camp thus far surrounding Echols has been his difficulty staying with receivers in coverage. Last season, Echols finished the year with a 53.5 coverage grade, which was one of the worst grades among returning players. Immediately, the issue has become apparent once again as Echols was beaten in coverage twice against the Commanders.
In practice Echols has also struggled to stay with the Jets receivers as Garrett Wilson has notably burnt Echols for a few highlight-reel plays. The fourth-year defensive back has had his struggles, but also showcased plenty of skill in the past during his time as a starter.
Echols began his NFL career with the New York Jets in 2021, when he played in 14 games for the Jets largely out of necessity due to injuries. Echols recorded 63 total tackles along with two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), a safety, and nine pass defenses. During this time, however, Echols still struggled in coverage allowing 12.3 yards per reception and missing ten solo tackle opportunities.
Can Echols Retain His Spot in the Jets Defensive Lineup?
The New York Jets front office has worked to improve certain areas on the team by adding plenty of veterans and youthful depth. In the case of Echols, it might be hard to retain a spot in the lineup or even a spot on the roster depending on how he continues to perform.
Technically speaking, the Jets have four rookie cornerbacks in Jaylen Key, Qwan’tez Stiggers, Brandon Codrington, and Shemar Bartholomew. Key is likely going to play more of a hybrid-safety role and could stack the box against the run. Stiggers previously played for the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL, which qualifies the 22-year old as a veteran and not a rookie according to the official NFL rosters.
Echols offers a great level of skill when assisting in the run game, but at 5-feet-10-inches and 175-pounds, the 6-foot-2-inch, 210-pound Key will likely take over that role. The Jets have added size in the department that Echols succeed at, and now have better cornerbacks in coverage compared to Echols as well.
With just one-year left on his contract and a cap hit of just over $1 million, Echols could be cut if he does not improve.
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