The New York Jets made some big changes this season, trading away Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. But, they've also added a few key players in John Metchie, Adonai Mitchell, and Mazi Smith.
But, despite a 2-8 record, the Jets aren't done adding to this roster. According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Jets are signing defensive tackle Khalen Saunders.
What makes this signing so interesting is that Saunders is choosing to come to Aaron Glenn's Jets over signing with a contender, despite having interest from a few.
Jets are signing ex-Chiefs DT despite interest from contenders
"Veteran DT Khalen Saunders is expected to sign with the Jets, per sources," Pelissero reports. "The two-time Super Bowl champion is the latest veteran addition in New York, where Aaron Glenn is working to build the culture."
Saunders was cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars, and a week later, he is planning to sign with the Jets. He previously played for the New Orleans Saints and the Kansas City Chiefs, where he won two Super Bowls with Patrick Mahomes in 2019 and 2022.
The 29-year-old defensive tackle has 70 games of experience since 2019 and has started 32 games in his NFL career. With Williams on the Cowboys, the Jets could use extra defensive help in the interior.
Saunders has 6.5 sacks and 184 tackles in his NFL career. He recorded three tackles with the Jaguars before getting released, clearing waivers, and now reportedly signing with the Jets.
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Saunders will be a quality veteran addition to the Jets' roster down the stretch of the season. This decision from Saunders, who could choose where he wound up, is a fascinating one.
He was drawing interest from a few contenders, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The Indianapolis Colts, Baltimore Ravens, and Arizona Cardinals were all showing interest in Saunders alongside the Jets.
And despite the Jets being the team with the worst record, Saunders decided to join Glenn in New York. He chose the Jets over multiple contenders, and also likely a potential reunion with the Chiefs.
The veteran defensive tackle joins a Jets defense undergoing an identity shift under Glenn. Some big changes have occurred to the Jets' defense, and Saunders, at 6-0, 324 lbs, is another big change to the defense.
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