The New York Jets reduced their roster to 52 players on Sunday, leaving one open spot that is expected to be filled on Monday with the finalization of a trade for Jordan Meredith, a backup center/guard from the Las Vegas Raiders. Jets general manager Darren Mougey confirmed the deal, which involves sending a sixth-round pick in 2027 to the Raiders in exchange for Meredith and a seventh-round pick in 2029.
The Jets identified a need for a backup for center Josh Myers and guards Joe Tippmann and Dylan Parham, as their interior offensive line backups struggled during training camp. Xavier Newman, who had been the backup center, was among the cuts.
The roster cuts included quarterback Brady Cook, who started four games last season but had been the fourth quarterback throughout camp. Defensive end Nate Lynn, who recorded three sacks in two preseason games, was also waived. Defensive end Braiden McGregor made the initial roster, which was unexpected. The team retained four tight ends, including Jelani Woods, and fullback Andrew Beck.
Rookies VJ Payne and Anez Cooper were placed on injured reserve with a designation to return, allowing them to potentially return as soon as Week 5.
The Jets are optimistic that Meredith will provide a reliable option at center if Myers is injured. Meredith started 11 games for the Raiders last season, who had one of the lowest-performing offensive lines, allowing a league-high 64 sacks. The Jets previously signed Dylan Parham to be their starting left guard.
Meredith, 28, will reunite with quarterback Geno Smith, who played for the Raiders last year. He is in the final year of his contract, set to earn $3.5 million.
Teams will be awarded waiver claims on Monday afternoon, with the Jets holding the second position in the waiver order, giving them a chance to select from available players.
The Jets currently face two significant questions regarding their roster: kicker and backup quarterback. Jason Sanders secured the kicking position over Cade York during training camp, but his performance has raised concerns, as he missed an extra point and a field goal in the preseason finale against the Giants. While Sanders remains on the initial roster, his position is uncertain.
Blake Grupe, who lost the kicking battle with Spencer Shrader at the Colts, and Charlie Smyth, cut by the Saints, are potential targets for the Jets.
The backup quarterback situation also remains unclear. Rookie Cade Klubnik has been the No. 2 quarterback throughout training camp, but has not demonstrated sufficient capability to serve as Smith’s primary backup. Many teams retained four quarterbacks, limiting the Jets' options. Former starter Will Levis was released by the Titans, presenting an intriguing option, along with veterans Josh Johnson and Jake Browning, who were cut by the Bengals and Buccaneers, respectively.
Additionally, there were notable roster developments among the Jets' early-season opponents. The Packers placed star edge rusher Micah Parsons on the physically unable to perform list, sidelining him for the first four games. The Jets are scheduled to face the Packers in Week 2. Green Bay running back Josh Jacobs was also placed on the commissioner’s exempt list due to legal issues, preventing him from playing.
The Lions placed safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph on the PUP list, meaning they will miss the Week 3 game against Detroit.