The New York Jets' roster talent has reached a point where good players are going to be cut due to the numbers game.
To that notion, there are three second-year players who likely find themselves in an intense fight for a roster spot this summer.
Running back Israel Abanikanda, defensive back Jarrick Bernard-Converse and tight end Zack Kuntz all played sparingly as rookies. After combining for 15 appearances in 2023, these three men seemingly have a lot of competition ahead of them on the depth chart.
All three "potential cut candidates" were drafted, albeit on Day 3, and teams don't like admitting a draft "failure" after only one season, so it won't be surprising if they all make the 53-man roster. Still, it's far from a guarantee.
The Jets kick off training camp on July 23 when veterans report to Florham Park.
RB Israel Abanikanda
Abanikanda did not see the field much at all as a rookie, suiting up for six games. The fifth-round running back carried 22 times for 70 yards and failed to carve out a role on special teams. Seemingly a pass blocking liability, Abanikanda must show drastic improvement in Year 2.
DB Jarrick Bernard-Converse
The sixth-round selection did not practice in the 2023 preseason and started the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list. The Jets eventually activated Bernard-Converse 10 weeks into the season and he played eight games almost exclusively on special teams. The versatile defensive back took only four snaps on defense last year and could potentially lose his spot to converted safety Isaiah Oliver.
RELATED: Jets' Most Important Player Not Named Aaron Rodgers
TE Zack Kuntz
Drafted in Round 7 as a developmental tight end, Kuntz had a relatively quiet rookie season. He has all of the physical attributes of an effective NFL tight end, but needs polishing. Although he is apparently fourth on the depth chart, it could be a good sign that general manager Joe Douglas mentioned Kuntz as part of tight ends group while addressing reporters this past spring.
