The middle of the Jets' defense is going to be quite competitive this season, as the team agreed to a 1-year contract with another inside linebacker, Patrick Onwuasor. Onwuasor, 27, spent his entire career with the Ravens who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2016. He started in 32 games over four seasons, recording a total of 234 tackles (161 solo), 9.5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles and 1 interception.
Onwuasor's best season was in 2018 when he started in 12 games and had a career high 5.5 tackles. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Chargers in Week 16. He had 9 total tackles, 2 sacks and forced a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. Last year he started in 6 games, participating in 48% of all defensive snaps. Baltimore tried to use him in C.J. Mosley's role but Onwuasor struggled and ended up being benched after five games.
LB C.J. Mosley and LB Avery Williamson, both of whom missed most of last season due to injuries, are the projected starters in the middle. Onwuasor, Blake Cashman, and recently re-signed James Burgess and Neville Hewitt will be providing depth.