As you know by now, the New York Jets linebacker room is hurting. Both Quincy Williams and Marcelino McCrary-Ball are on short-term IR and the Jets have had to backfill on the fly. Gang Green poached former Patriots and Steelers linebacker Mark Robinson before signing former Lion Ben Niemann to their practice squad. They’ve added more bodies, but it’s a bit dicey.
Bringing in and playing a new player on short notice isn’t just about talent, but knowledge of the scheme. While Ben Neimann appeared in 17 games for the Lions last season, this scheme won’t be identical given the presence of Steve Wilkes. Could this open the door for Jackson Sirmon?
A member of the Jets undrafted free agent class last season, Sirmon played 55 snaps this preseason after the Jets included him in the eight veteran players they took an extended look at during rookie training camp.
The 6′ 3” 235 pound Sirmon spent six seasons at Washington State and Cal, starting 51 games while racking up 301 tackles with an 8% missed tackle rate (per PFF) over his final three seasons.
When the Jets announce any additions to the roster ahead of their Monday night meeting with the Miami Dolphins, it’s possible Sirmon’s name will be among them.
Assuming rookie linebacker Kiko Mauigoa sees a significant increase in reps this week as well, we may get an extended look at some new faces on Monday night.
