Backup Jets LB has been a bright spot on a bad defense

The New York Jets haven't had many positive storylines on defense lately.

Head coach Aaron Glenn fired defensive coordinator Steve Wilks after his unit allowed 48 points in a Week 15 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Chris Harris took charge of the defense on an interim basis, but things did not improve in a 29-6 Week 17 loss to the New Orleans Saints.

One of the few bright spots has been the play of linebacker Mykal Walker. Walker has been playing a notable amount of snaps at linebacker despite Jamien Sherwood and Quincy Williams being healthy and available. The former Fresno State standout might be playing himself into a 2026 role.

Walker registered seven tackles and three run stops versus the Saints in Week 16, according to Pro Football Focus.

The 2020 fourth-round selection did not miss a single tackle. Walker was also effective in coverage, allowing just two receptions on three targets for seven yards. His 89.3 PFF grade in Week 17 was second-highest among all linebackers.

Random shoutout but Mykal Walker has quietly been pretty darn good as LB3 for the #Jets.

His 89.3 PFF grade in Week 16 ranks 1st among all LBs so far.

Walker recorded 7 tackles (0 missed) and 3 run stops, allowing just 2 catches on 3 targets for 7 yards.

In fact, since Week…— Justin Fried (@JustinTFried) December 22, 2025

Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are searching for future solutions on their rebuilding roster. Walker might be playing his way into securing a 53-man roster spot and rotational role next season. Walker is worth monitoring in Weeks 17 and 18.

Jets Wire will continue to provide updates throughout the 2025 season.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Backup Jets LB has been a bright spot on a bad defense