The New York Jets are undergoing significant changes under new leadership, including general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn. With a fresh starting quarterback in Justin Fields, the team is reevaluating its roster ahead of the June 1 salary cap deadline, making Malachi Corley a potential salary cap casualty Jets fans should watch closely.
While rookies Armand Membou and Mason Taylor join core players like Breece Hall, Garrett Wilson, and Allen Lazard, the Jets defense has seen departures such as CJ Mosley and Chuck Clark. However, defensive standouts including Jermaine Johnson II, Jamien Sherwood, Sauce Gardner, Tony Adams, and the Williams brothers, Quincy and Quinnen, remain pivotal to the team’s plans.
As the Jets prepare for a competitive AFC East, intensified by moves from the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots, trimming the roster to meet salary cap requirements will be urgent. Several players are at risk of being released to create cap space and improve team efficiency.
Top Five Players Likely Facing Jets Salary Cap Cuts
5. Anders Carlson’s Uncertain Future as Specialist
Although kickers often receive little credit, their performance can decisively impact the outcome of games. After leading the league in missed field goals as a rookie, Anders Carlson struggled again during the preseason this year. His inconsistency raises questions about his reliability in high-pressure moments, casting doubt on his place with the Jets moving forward.
“the guys you bring in when you cannot score a touchdown” —Justin Tucker, Kicker
4. Stone Smartt’s Position at Risk Amid Tight End Overhaul
Historically, the Jets have lacked depth at tight end, complicated by injuries to key players such as Dustin Keller. With rookie Mason Taylor projected to make an impact, Stone Smartt’s minimal contributions since joining as an undrafted free agent in 2022 put him in jeopardy. The team appears ready to invest in emerging talent instead of players who haven’t consistently delivered.
3. Jay Tufele Battles to Retain Defensive Line Spot
To replace Javon Kinlaw alongside Quinnen Williams, the Jets have brought in Derrick Nnadi as the likely starter, with backups including Phidarian Mathis, Byron Cowart, and Leonard Taylor III nearing roster security. Jay Tufele, who was waived by the Jacksonville Jaguars before his second season and spent time inactive on the Cincinnati Bengals’ bench, faces an uphill climb to hold onto a role in the rotation.
2. Isaiah Oliver’s Role Put to the Test on Cornerbacks Depth Chart
The Jets’ cornerback group remains crowded despite key players like Sauce Gardner, Brandon Stephens, and Michael Carter solidifying starting and nickel roles. Isaiah Oliver is expected to see significant field time, but the influx of younger talents and the issues with special teams player Kris Boyd—who was noted for unprofessional conduct—makes Oliver’s place in jeopardy as the roster narrows.
1. Malachi Corley’s Struggles Place Him at the Top of the Cut List
Selected in the third round, Malachi Corley has underperformed drastically, recording only three catches for 16 yards over nine games. This lack of production is especially glaring given the previous regime ranked him high on their draft board. Meanwhile, Allen Lazard remains with the team despite paying a price cut and the loss of his preferred quarterback, further highlighting Corley’s precarious status. An injury suffered during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) has only worsened his situation, making him the most likely candidate to be released when the deadline passes.
What These Cuts Signal for the Jets’ Future
As the Jets reshape their roster amid an anxious and competitive environment, decisions to cut players like Malachi Corley represent a push to optimize talent and salary cap health. These moves could open opportunities for emerging players such as Mason Taylor and Leonard Taylor III, while addressing weaknesses in special teams and defensive depth. The June 1 deadline serves as a defining moment that will shape the Jets’ roster composition and their ability to contend in a challenging AFC East.