10 Small Victories for the Jets Despite a 3-9 Record
The Jets haven’t won often this season, but they’ve shown improvement in areas that directly impact long-term development. Under first-year head coach Aaron Glenn, the team has remained competitive late in games, committed to a run-first offense, and developed key young players such as Adonai Mitchell and Breece Hall.
And while these aren’t highlight-reel wins, they point to progress the Jets can actually build on.
Winning Without Their Best Players
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The Jets beat Atlanta without Garrett Wilson, who hasn’t played in any of their wins this season. They also moved on from Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams at midseason, which could have gutted the roster. Their ability to stay competitive without those cornerstones depicts growth in depth and preparation.
Close Games are No Longer Outliers
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Seven straight games have reached the fourth quarter with only one score separating the teams. That kind of consistency matters because it demonstrates improved discipline over extended periods of play. Previous seasons included early meltdowns and lopsided finishes, but this year’s group has stayed composed.
Late Comebacks Are Proof of Stronger Mentality
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Trailing in every win can reveal instability, but it can also highlight perseverance. The Jets proved the latter when they stormed back against the Falcons with ten points in two minutes. Glenn pointed to their mindset, which continues to shift in a positive direction. A team stuck in an extended drought needs moments that reshape expectations.
Defense Held Together After Major Trades
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Losing Gardner and Williams could have triggered a slide, especially with a young roster already dealing with a rough start. Instead, their defensive numbers improved. Points allowed dropped, and their EPA moved closer to league average. Teams in similar situations often experience a sharp decline in morale and performance.
Run-Heavy Identity Brings Structure
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Nearly half of the Jets’ offense comes on the ground, the highest percentage in the league. Committing to that approach provides clarity during a season that could have easily drifted into weekly improvisation. They may not score often, but they know what they want to lean on. The comparison to the 2010 Rex Ryan era conveys how long it has been since the team embraced an unmistakable style.
Young Players are Getting Real-Time Development
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Seven rookies and second-year players logged at least 45 snaps in their last game. Adonai Mitchell’s eight-catch, 102-yard performance highlighted the value of that playing time. The team landed him in the Gardner trade, and he’s already shaping future plans. Many losing teams wait too long to involve inexperienced players in meaningful situations.
Aaron Glenn’s Growth Shows Up in Critical Moments
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Glenn stumbled in early game-management situations, including a mishandled sequence against Denver in London. He acknowledged that weakness, then sharpened his approach as the season progressed. His improved clock management in the win over Atlanta showed clearer communication and quicker decisions. Coaches often need time to adjust to the demands of the role.
Special Teams Has Become a True Asset
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While special teams usually only draw attention when mistakes happen, the Jets have quietly turned it into one of their most consistent strengths. Ranking third in special teams EPA reflects the sharp work of first-year coordinator Chris Banjo. Nick Folk, Austin McNamara, Isaiah Williams, and Kene Nwangwu have each contributed at a high level.
Breece Hall’s Role Finally Matches His Ability
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By reclaiming control of the backfield, Breece Hall has stepped into a lead role that now matches his ability. His snap count jumped to 88% in the most recent win, and he’s approaching the team’s first 1,000-yard rushing season since 2015. Glenn responded to earlier criticism with humor, but the change displays real trust.
Offensive Line Continuity Has Paid Off
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The Jets are the only NFL team to start the same five linemen in every game this year. That stability is rare, particularly for this franchise, which hasn’t seen similar consistency since 2012. Even after losing Alijah Vera-Tucker before the opener, the remaining group settled in quickly. John Simpson mentioned the usual aches and bruises, yet the unit continues to compete.