Detroit Lions

Jets Connected to Lions Defensive Back in Free Agency Rumors Due to Aaron Glenn Relationship

The New York Jets may look to reconnect Aaron Glenn with a familiar face once free agency begins.

According to The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt, Detroit Lions defensive back Amik Robertson is someone to monitor as the offseason approaches. Robertson primarily plays in the slot, but his connection to Glenn could make him an appealing option for the Jets. Rosenblatt noted that Robertson embraced Glenn’s coaching style in Detroit and developed into a reliable contributor under his guidance. While Jarvis Brownlee is currently in the mix for a starting role, Rosenblatt suggested the Jets shouldn’t hesitate to upgrade the position if a better fit becomes available — especially someone who already understands Glenn’s defensive expectations.

SNY’s Connor Hughes also identified Robertson as a possible target. While he may not be the splash signing some fans are anticipating, Hughes pointed out that Robertson fits the mold of players Glenn values. He compared the situation to Brandon Stephens, a defender Glenn previously helped elevate into a dependable piece.

Robertson posted a career-best performance in 2024, earning a 63.3 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus. Hughes added that although the Jets view Stephens as a starter and are optimistic about Brownlee in the slot, bringing in Robertson would add depth and flexibility to the secondary while the team searches for higher-impact talent in the draft.

Cornerback may not be considered the Jets’ most urgent need, but it remains an area that could use reinforcement. Stephens appears locked into one starting job, and Brownlee is a strong candidate for another. However, one outside spot still lacks certainty. The team hopes third-round pick Azareye’h Thomas will grow into that role after gaining valuable experience late last season, but competition could benefit the group.

Robertson would provide another experienced option. The 27-year-old, who will turn 28 before the 2026 campaign begins, started his career with the Raiders before spending the past two seasons in Detroit. He overlapped with Glenn for one year before Glenn accepted the Jets’ head coaching position.

Over 86 career games, including 35 starts, Robertson has compiled five interceptions, 35 pass breakups, seven forced fumbles, two sacks, a fumble recovery, 10 tackles for loss, and 213 total tackles. At 5-foot-9 and 183 pounds, he’s known more for competitiveness and toughness than size.

Financially, Robertson would likely be a manageable addition. His previous deal in Detroit was a two-year contract worth $9.25 million. Spotrac projects his next agreement could land around three years for roughly $11.8 million, averaging just under $4 million annually — a figure that would place him in the middle tier of NFL cornerback salaries.

There’s also a broader theme emerging: the Jets may prioritize adding players familiar with Glenn’s system and leadership style. Rosenblatt indicated the organization intends to pursue individuals who already understand Glenn’s culture and expectations.

ESPN’s Rich Cimini echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of adding strong locker room presences after what he described as a leadership void on defense last season. Drawing a comparison to Bill Parcells’ philosophy of bringing trusted veterans along, Cimini suggested Glenn could benefit from acquiring players who can reinforce his message and steady the team during difficult stretches.

If that approach materializes, Robertson could represent the beginning of a Detroit-to-New York pipeline this offseason.

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