New York Jets 2018 Player Profile: Darron Lee
New York Jets inside linebacker Darron Lee finally showed signs of progress last year. Here we take a look at his 2018 player profile.
The New York Jets have a chance at becoming a pretty good, well-rounded defensive unit this coming season. If they can remain relatively healthy, Gang Green could evolve into a top-10 NFL defense. Yes, it actually can happen.
One of the key components of this year’s defensive corps is inside linebacker Darron Lee. A first- round draft pick (20th overall) by general manager Mike Maccagnan in 2016, Lee struggled in his rookie season with New York, but bounced back to produce a steady if unspectacular 2017. If the Jets are to contend for an AFC Wild Card spot, Lee will have to continue to progress in their 3-4 defensive alignment.
Let’s take a look at his 2018 player profile.
2017 Season Recap
The Ohio State product really struggled in his rookie campaign two years ago. To his credit, he rebounded with a solid overall season last year. His individual numbers were up across the board. After starting just nine games in 2016, the 6-1, 232-pounder started 15 last season and was more effective in pass coverage and stouter against the run. He’s not all the way there yet, though. He needs to continue to improve in both key areas.
Lee ranked second on the squad in solo tackles (67) and total tackles (94), tied Buster Skrine for the team lead in forced fumbles (2) and registered three sacks. He showed enough development to wipe away the notion that he was just another draft pick bust from the Buckeyes.
2018 Season Outlook
This is a huge season for the Chattanooga, TN native. Lee has excellent lateral quickness and athleticism. His coverage skills showed some improvement in 2017 but he needs to increase his sack total and quarterback pressures. The Jets are crying out for their defenders to pressure the quarterback on a more consistent basis. They ranked 28th in the NFL in sacks (28) last year. That has to improve and Lee needs to be a big part of it.
Lee may call some defensive signals this coming season. He’s looked good during the preseason so far. He intercepted a Teddy Bridgewater pass and returned it for a score in practice the other day. He’s becoming more of a vocal team leader. His pairing with fellow inside linebacker Avery Williamson should provide Gang Green with two of the better sets of inside backers in the conference.
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If the Jets are to take the next step and develop into a premier defensive unit, Lee must perform like an opening round selection. He has a high ceiling though. It must translate to the gridiron. Some players don’t blossom until their third year in the league — Lee is entering his third season. This could be a make or break year for him. New York is counting on him to lift their defense to a higher level. He can’t let them down.