Jets Projected to Sign Two-Time Chiefs Super Bowl Champion Jaylen Watson in Free Agency

After a challenging 2025 season, the New York Jets are gearing up for major changes as they head into the 2026 season. From coaching shake-ups to significant roster moves, the Jets are aiming to revamp their squad and bounce back stronger. One area in particular that the Jets are focusing on is their defense, which struggled throughout the previous season. To avoid a repeat of the disappointing campaign, the Jets are predicted to make a big move in free agency, signing a two-time Super Bowl champion to bolster their secondary.

A Much-Needed Boost to the Jets’ Secondary

According to CBS Sports’ Zachary Pereles, the Jets are likely to pursue Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson during the upcoming free agency period. Watson, who has played his entire NFL career with the Chiefs, is set to hit the open market after a successful stint in Kansas City. The Jets, who have long struggled with defensive issues, particularly in the secondary, are in desperate need of a cornerback who can elevate their defense and make an impact in key moments.

Watson, 27, has been a standout player in the Chiefs’ defense since being drafted in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Over the past few seasons, he has solidified himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the league, becoming a critical part of Kansas City’s Super Bowl-winning squads. With his ability to shut down receivers and contribute to the team’s overall defensive success, Watson could provide the Jets with the kind of talent they’ve been lacking in their defensive backfield.

A Shutdown Corner Who Doesn’t Allow Touchdowns

What makes Watson such an appealing target for the Jets is his incredible consistency and performance in coverage. According to Pereles, Watson hasn’t allowed a single touchdown in either of the past two seasons. His impressive stats highlight his ability to shut down opposing offenses and consistently win his individual battles. Over the last two years, Watson has allowed a passer rating of just 75.4 in 2024 and 79.0 in 2025—statistics that underscore his reliability as a cornerback and his capability to excel in high-pressure situations.

In addition to his solid regular-season performance, Watson has also shown up in the postseason. During his rookie year, he recorded two interceptions in the playoffs, one of which was a game-changing 99-yard pick-six. His ability to perform in clutch moments would be invaluable for the Jets, who need a cornerback that can consistently make plays in big games.

Why Watson is the Right Fit for the Jets

For the Jets, adding Watson to their roster would be a major win, especially considering their current defensive needs. As Pereles notes, Aaron Glenn, the Jets’ defensive coordinator, is well aware of the team’s struggles in the secondary and knows that he needs to bring in better cornerback play if the Jets are to become a competitive force in the AFC. Watson’s style of play, particularly his coverage skills and ability to limit touchdowns, makes him an ideal fit for a defense looking to make a significant leap.

While the Jets may be seeking playmakers who can generate turnovers, Watson’s value goes beyond just picking off passes. His shutdown abilities would give the Jets the kind of cornerback that could match up against top receivers across the league, providing stability and reliability at one of the most critical positions in the defense.

The Jets’ Pursuit of a True No. 1 Cornerback

One of the main reasons the Jets could target Watson is the potential departure of Sauce Gardner, the team’s star cornerback. The Jets have been rumored to be considering a trade of Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts, and if that move goes through, the Jets will need to find a replacement who can step into the role of a true number-one cornerback. Signing Watson would be an excellent move to ensure that the Jets maintain a top-tier defense, even if they lose Gardner in a trade.

Watson’s championship pedigree and experience in high-stakes games would provide the Jets with the type of leadership and stability they need in the secondary. With a player of Watson’s caliber, the Jets would have the opportunity to solidify their defense and make a run at the postseason in 2026.

The Jets’ Defensive Revamp: Big Moves Ahead

As the 2026 season approaches, the Jets are likely to be active in free agency, seeking to improve their defense and overall roster. The projected signing of Jaylen Watson could be one of the most impactful moves they make. Not only would Watson improve the Jets’ cornerback play, but he would also add a level of experience and success that the team could desperately use.

In a year where the Jets are determined to turn things around, landing a two-time Super Bowl champion cornerback could set the tone for an improved defense and a more competitive team overall. As the Jets look to rebuild and retool their roster, the addition of Watson could be the first of many important steps in the right direction.