The New York Jets are serious underdogs versus the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. Aaron Glenn's defense will need to play a phenomenal game in Week 9 to stand any chance at upsetting the high-scoring Chiefs. The 2-6 Jets are speedracing towards another totally wasted campaign.
We've identified three Jets defenders who must serve as X-factors versus the Chiefs in Week 9.
David Bailey, EDGE
The Jets need No. 2 overall selection David Bailey to begin making bigger impacts as a pass rusher. Bailey still leads all rookie pass rushers in pressures (26), but he places 10th among 14 qualifying rookies in PFF's efficiency and pass-rush WIN% numbers (8.9%). The Jets need to see more consistency from their premium selection.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S
This Jets defense has forced eight takeaways, tied
for 25th in the league. Seven of those are fumbles, with the lone interception proving this secondary is still struggling to force errant throws. Veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is the defense's best chance to force a takeaway in any given matchup.
Will McDonald IV, EDGE
The 2-6 Jets might be sellers at next week's NFL trade deadline (Nov. 10). Disappointing EDGE Will McDonald IV is scheduled to play on his fifth-year rookie contract option next season, making him a prime candidate to be traded. A strong showing by McDonald versus the Chiefs could increase league-wide interest in his services on Monday.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 3 potential X-factors for the Jets defense vs. Chiefs in Week 9
