FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (Azat TV) – The New York Jets have initiated a sweeping overhaul of their defensive unit, headlined by the return of veteran linebacker Demario Davis. The 37-year-old, who spent the last eight seasons with the New Orleans Saints, has agreed to a two-year, $22 million contract with $15 million guaranteed, according to reports from ESPN.
Reuniting with Aaron Glenn
This signing marks Davis’ third stint with the Jets, the organization that originally drafted him in the third round in 2012. His return is heavily influenced by his existing relationship with head coach Aaron Glenn, who served as the Saints’ defensive backs coach during much of Davis’ tenure in New Orleans. The move is viewed as a critical step in stabilizing a defense that finished 31st in points allowed last season.
Strategic Defensive Additions
Beyond the addition of Davis, the Jets have moved aggressively to address their pass rush. The team reached agreements with edge players Joseph Ossai on a three-year, $36 million deal and Kingsley Enagbare on a one-year, $10 million contract. These signings follow the team’s trade for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, signaling an intensive effort to revamp the defensive core ahead of the 2026 season.
The Impact of the Departure
For the New Orleans Saints, the departure of the eight-time team captain concludes a storied chapter. Davis started 131 regular-season games for the franchise, earning two Pro Bowl selections and becoming a pillar of the New Orleans community. While the Saints look toward younger defensive prospects, the Jets are betting on Davis’ veteran leadership to anchor their defense under new coordinator Brian Duker, though Glenn has confirmed he will retain primary play-calling duties.
The arrival of Davis, alongside high-value defensive end signings, underscores a deliberate shift in the Jets’ personnel strategy: prioritizing high-IQ veteran stability and proven leadership to immediately correct the systemic defensive failures that characterized the team’s previous campaign.