WATCH: The reasons why newcomer Derrick Kindred will crack Jets' roster
On Tuesday, the Jets announced they have claimed fourth-year defensive back Derrick Kindred off waivers, waiving cornerback Montrel Meander in a corresponding move.
This move is interesting for a numbers of reasons. For one, Kindred is more than your typical camp body. A fourth-round pick of the Cleveland Browns in 2016, the 25-year-old has played in 42 career games, making 17 starts.
The former TCU star has totaled 148 tackles, 12 passes defended, two interceptions and one forced fumble over his three-year career. In Cleveland, Kindred played under current Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams for the past two seasons.
Waived by the Browns on April 2, Kindred was claimed off waivers by the Indianapolis Colts and subsequently released on Aug. 19. Kindred brings experience and versatility to a razor thin Jets secondary. While the 5-foot-10, 210-pound defender is a natural safety, he has demonstrated the athleticism to play cornerback.
With more teams utilizing two tight end sets at a higher frequency and looking to spread defenses out, having an extra safety on the field has become commonplace in today's NFL. He will only have two games to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff, but his familiarity with Williams increase his odds of sticking around.
