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Several New York Jets players meet before the start of an NFL game.
In 2019, the New York Jets invested a record $85 million in linebacker CJ Mosley during free agency.
They reset the market hoping that Mosely could fix the team’s culture and be an anchor for the future.
Sadly, his first two years were marred by injuries and a global pandemic which led to him being pulled out of the 2020 season. Although after a special campaign in 2021, the veteran continues to receive accolades.
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RESPECT
NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler polled more than 50 executives, coaches, scouts and players to compile a top 10 list for each position group.
ESPN’s latest edition featured the league’s best inside linebackers, and Mosley earned special recognition.
Although not currently in the league’s top 10 in his position, Mosely earned an honorable mention:
“Always really solid, always strong and flowing, I’ve never been a nervous athlete,” an NFC executive told Fowler. “Hasn’t declined as much but is on that trajectory.”
The 30-year-old only played two games in his first two seasons with the Jets, but last year Mosley was finally able to show the team what he was capable of:
- 168 total tackles
- two bags
- Two forced escapes
After not playing much of 2019-20, Mosley has adapted for 16 games in 2021 and played 99% of the defensive snaps.
Still one of the best
When head coach Robert Saleh took over the team in 2021, there were some initial concerns over Mosley’s transition to his program.
Although after seeing his commitment to changing his body and his obvious leadership skills, Saleh changed his tune.
Will Mosley make the team in 2023? It is very to be determined.
There’s a built-in contract opt-out if the Jets want to exercise it after this upcoming season. If they cut ties with Mosley in a year, they would save over $14 million in ceiling space with a minimal death blow ($3 million).
Although he is locked up for the 2022 campaign and that is good news for the Jets. While he may not be the same All-Pro-level player he was with the Baltimore Ravens, Mosley is still easily one of the best players on the team.
He’s not just talented, Mosley is hugely important due to the position he plays and the lack of depth in the room.
Saleh has built this offense-style defense that puts tremendous pressure on his linebackers to call the defense and make plays. When you consider the Greens and Whites have done absolutely nothing to add to the roster this offseason, the Jets are clearly all-in on Mosley because they have no other choice.
If the former Alabam star were to get injured or fall dramatically, this whole defense could fold like a cheap suit. Although if he plays another straight year, maybe the Jets would have fun bringing him back to a reduced number in 2023.
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