Jets Eye Lions’ $6.5M Star After Aaron Glenn Hire – Is Marcus Davenport the Missing Piece?
The New York Jets have officially turned the page to a new era with the hiring of Aaron Glenn as their head coach. The former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator brings a wealth of experience, and his appointment signals a potential shift in the Jets’ defensive philosophy. But beyond just bringing Glenn aboard, the Jets might also look to poach talent from Detroit’s roster, with one name standing out—Marcus Davenport.
A Familiar Face for Glenn
Justin Fried of The Jet Press recently speculated that Glenn and the Jets could reunite with Lions free agent edge rusher Marcus Davenport. Glenn has coached Davenport twice before—first with the New Orleans Saints and then in Detroit—making the 27-year-old pass rusher a natural target in free agency.
“The only pending Lions free agent to be coached by Aaron Glenn on multiple different teams is Marcus Davenport,” Fried noted. “Injuries have derailed the career of Davenport, who was once drafted to be Cameron Jordan’s potential replacement in New Orleans some seven years ago.”
While injuries have been a major setback for Davenport, his talent is undeniable. Back in 2021, he posted a career-best nine sacks in just 11 games for the Saints, flashing the potential that made him a first-round pick in 2018. However, in the past two seasons, he has managed to play just six total games due to a series of significant injuries.
Why the Jets Need Davenport
The Jets are in need of reinforcements along their defensive line, especially with questions surrounding their pass-rushing depth. While their starting unit, led by Quinnen Williams, remains formidable, New York lacks reliable edge rushers who can consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Davenport, if healthy, could provide that spark. He might not be a long-term solution, but he could serve as a short-term fix for the 2025 season. At 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, Davenport brings size, athleticism, and pass-rushing ability, making him an intriguing low-risk, high-reward option for the Jets.
Low Risk, High Reward?
One of the biggest advantages of signing Davenport is that his injury history could significantly lower his market value. Given his limited availability over the past two seasons, it’s unlikely he will command a lucrative long-term deal in free agency. Instead, teams like the Jets could offer him a one-year, prove-it deal worth around $6.5 million—similar to what he earned with the Lions.
For a team looking to upgrade their pass rush without committing to an expensive long-term contract, Davenport could be an ideal target. The Jets have had success with similar reclamation projects in the past, and Glenn’s familiarity with Davenport’s strengths and weaknesses could make New York an appealing landing spot.
Could Davenport Stay in Detroit?
While the Jets may have interest, there’s also the possibility that the Lions could look to bring Davenport back on a short-term deal. Detroit’s defense made major strides in 2023, and a healthy Davenport could help bolster their pass rush alongside Aidan Hutchinson.
However, with Glenn no longer running the defense in Detroit, Davenport might feel more inclined to follow his former coach to New York, where he would have the opportunity to play under a familiar system.
Final Thoughts
The Jets have a major offseason ahead as they attempt to build a roster capable of contending in 2025. While Aaron Glenn’s hiring is a step in the right direction, New York still needs to address key weaknesses—particularly on the defensive line.
If healthy, Marcus Davenport could be an excellent addition at a relatively low cost. Given his connection to Glenn and the Jets’ need for pass-rushing help, this move makes plenty of sense. Now, it’s up to the Jets to decide if they’re willing to gamble on a player with undeniable talent but a troubling injury history.
Would Davenport be worth the risk for the Jets? That’s a question they’ll have to answer as free agency approaches.
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