1. Calvin Pryor, SS
In perhaps a surprising upset, it’s Calvin Pryor who tops the list as the most valuable Jet heading into 2016.
There’s no arguing the idea of how important guys like Revis, Marshall and Mangold are. They’re critical. But what Pryor provides is just a little step up from all of them.
In 2015 Pryor missed three games. In those games the Jets went 1-2 with losses to the Oakland Raiders and Buffalo Bills and a narrow win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The defense surrendered 451 yards in Oakland, 436 yards against the Jags, and 280 yards against a Rex Ryan offense who never wants to score points.
Much like Mangold from an offensive perspective, Pryor’s absence sent shockwaves that trickled down on the defensive side.
No longer is he the guy who was severely played out of position by Rex Ryan and John Idzik. He’s true strong safety who sticks his nose in everything box related and gets the defense ready from a physical perspective.
Don’t under-estimate the importance Todd Bowles has on this guy either. Bowles is a former safety in the NFL and is well equipped in getting the most out of his safeties. He understands the position and relies on his guys heavily.
The versatility Pyror brings to this defense is profound.
