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Jordan Jenkins primed for a breakout for the New York Jets under Gregg Williams

Linebacker Jordan Jenkins had a good 2019 but is set for a bigger year under defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.

This season, New York Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams knows he has tools to make the defense an asset this season. The focus has been the secondary. That features new corners and an unhappy safety. Former Jets wide receiver Rob Carpenter thinks Jordan Jenkins is poised to have a big season, something that would fit

“Basically, he’s the leading sack guy on the team,” Carpenter said in an exclusive interview with SportsIllustrated.com’s ‘Jets Country’ recently. “Just imagine if he could actually play a full game without having to platoon with someone else, the impact that he could have.”

Jenkins was drafted by the New York Jets in the third round, No. 83 overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He started a few games under former coach Todd Bowles. He was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week back in 2017 in a Thursday night victory over the Buffalo Bills.

There were rumors that Jenkins would leave the Jets to head to crosstown rival New York Giants. Jenkins is a fan favorite, and he is looking for an even bigger role in the second year of the Gregg Williams defense.

He played in 14 games 13 of them as a starter. He led the Jets with eight sacks, one more than the year prior. He also had 32 tackles, three passes defensed, two forced fumbles, nine tackles for loss and 13 quarterback hits, which he was tied for the team lead.

Despite his success, he played in only 52% of the team’s defensive snaps. Carpenter alludes to the increased playing time this season as being a big key for this fan favorite. Without the presence of a big-time pass rusher on the defensive line, Williams’ schemes have led to the linebacker with opportunities to rush the passer, and Jenkins has capitalized on the opportunities.

After testing the free-agent waters, Jenkins didn’t see the offers piling up. He re-signed with the Jets on April 23.

“He makes a lot of plays when he’s in the game,” Carpenter said. “He just doesn’t get the credit. He’s an underrated guy.”

Carpenter played for the Jets for three seasons from 1992-1994. He played in 35 games for the Jets, recording 19 receptions for 244 yards and his only NFL touchdown catch.