New York Jets: 3 Players that won't be back in 2018

New York Jets: 3 Players that won’t be back in 2018

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 29: Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets celebrates a tackle against running back Tevin Coleman #26 (not pictured) of the Atlanta Falcons during the third quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – SEPTEMBER 24: Jay Cutler #6 of the Miami Dolphins has his pass attempt defended by Kony Ealy #94 of the New York Jets during the first half of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on September 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

1. Kony Ealy

The Jets signed the 6-4, 273-pound defensive end as a free agent in August to improve their pass rush. While Ealy has had a few impressive moments, he has not had the impact Todd Bowles had hoped for once the 2017 season began.

The University of Missouri product has played in 13 of 14 games but has been invisible in most of them. After registering five sacks for the Carolina Panthers last year, Ealy has recorded just one sack for Gang Green. He does have several deflected passes and an interception but has only 11 solo tackles to his credit. The Jets brought him in to get to the quarterback but they are tied for 24th place in the NFL in sacks (26). Ealy will be a free agent after this season so he can be released without any financial ramifications for New York.

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Ealy’s moment in the sun will always be his spectacular performance in Super Bowl 50 when he played for the Panthers. Although his squad lost 24-10 to Denver, Ealy tied a Super Bowl record with three sacks (Peyton Manning). He also recorded an interception to become the lone defender to tally three sacks and an interception in the same SB contest. He chipped in with a forced fumble too – on just 23 snaps. It was one of the greatest efforts in the long history of pro football’s biggest game. He may have been the MVP if Carolina emerged victorious.

Too bad the Jets never got the same player. Not even close.

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