Jets vow: “No more defensive disasters” after loss vs Bills

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – Following an unusually weak defensive performance last week, the New York Jets promise they won’t repeat a similar performance.

“We all made a pact as a defense, player to player: That won’t happen again,” defensive tackle Quinnen Williams said on Thursday.

Quinnen Williams

The 30-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills evidenced a careless and apathetic performance. The Jets allowed 224 rushing yards, their worst mark since 2021, the year they finished at the bottom of the defensive rankings. For the Jets, who have been one of the top four defenses in yards allowed in each of the last three seasons, this was shocking. The situation has generated an intense practice week as the Jets (0-2) prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0) on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.

“We all accept constructive criticism from others and assume what we need to do well and improve,” Williams commented.

Quinnen WilliamsThe Jets struggled with tackling against the Bills, allowing Buffalo running back James Cook to run for 132 yards and two touchdowns. They also committed penalties, including four that gave the Bills first downs. The most serious was a roughing the passer penalty on Micheal Clemons on third and 19. With eight defensive starters returning, the Jets began the season with high expectations, but have allowed 64 points in two games. Although they are learning a new scheme, defensive coordinator Steve Wilks doesn’t believe that’s the problem. “I don’t think anything in the first two weeks has been schematic,” Wilks said, stating that they need to improve their fundamentals. On Sunday, the Jets will face a weakened Buccaneers offensive line. The Bucs placed guard Cody Mauch and tackle Luke Goedeke on injured reserve, meaning they will be without three starters. Williams said he is not focused on that, as the Jets have their own problems.

“When we stop making silly mistakes on third down and when we stop making mental mistakes regarding fundamentals and execution, we are going to be a great defense,” he said, adding that the Jets have “the players in the defensive room to be one of the best defenses in this league.”

Quinnen WilliamsWilliams, former All-Pro and team captain, expressed a sense of urgency.

“The DNA has to come alive. The standard that coach AG (Aaron Glenn) has been preaching, has to come alive,” he added.

Quinnen Williams

And he reiterated about last week: “It won’t happen again.” The Jets could have a defensive setback, as defensive end Jermaine Johnson (ankle) missed practice for the second consecutive day. Safety Tony Adams (hip) and nickel back Michael Carter II (shoulder) returned in a limited capacity.