Jets DC Steve Wilks heaps DE Micheal Clemons with praise

Jets DC Steve Wilks heaps DE Micheal Clemons with praise

The New York Jets entered training camp searching for depth at EDGE. Third-year pro Will McDonald IV is the most reliable outside linebacker on the roster. With Jermaine Johnson II still on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, the Jets need players like Micheal Clemons to be productive.

A 2022 fourth-round pick, Clemons is entering his fourth training camp with the Jets. He's seen an increased amount of reps due to Johnson's absence from the practice field. Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks has been impressed with Clemons' form, recently claiming he's having an "outstanding camp," per Brian Costello.

Clemons appeared in all 17 regular-season contests for the Jets last year. The former Texas A&M standout was a rotational defender, playing a healthy 625 snaps due to injuries elsewhere. Clemons recorded a career-high 4.5 sacks as a result, and he's looking to carry that momentum over to 2025.

Clemons had 23 total pressures and a pass-rushing grade of 55.2, per Pro Football Focus. The Jets finished tied for 11th in the NFL in sacks with 43 quarterback takedowns. Clemons made his contributions to that success.

New Jets head coach Aaron Glenn is a defensive-minded leader. Coach Wilks is his DC. Both of them have been impressed with Clemons, who is enjoying an "outstanding" training camp while entering a fate-deciding contract year.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets training camp: DC Steve Wilks heaps DE Micheal Clemons with praise