Aaron Glenn and New York Jets Target Alex Anzalone and 5 other Lions Payers
The New York Jets enter the 2026 offseason with urgency and flexibility, armed with more than $80 million in projected cap space. After another disappointing year, head coach Aaron Glenn is under pressure to deliver immediate results.
With Glenn heading into his second season, the Jets are expected to lean on familiarity in free agency. The Detroit Lions provide a natural talent pool, as Glenn helped build their defensive identity. Here are five former Lions the Jets could target in 2026 free agency.
- LB Alex Anzalone
Alex Anzalone became a defensive leader in Detroit under Glenn, evolving into a team captain and locker-room voice. Now 31 and approaching free agency, Anzalone could be nearing the end of his Lions tenure.
The Jets could use stability at linebacker, especially with uncertainty around Quincy Williams and Jamien Sherwood. While signing a veteran isn’t ideal long-term, Anzalone’s leadership and familiarity with Glenn’s system make him the most logical reunion candidate.
Why it makes sense:
Proven culture fit
Trusted by Glenn
Immediate upgrade in leadership and communication
- DE Al-Quadin Muhammad
Al-Quadin Muhammad broke out in 2025 with 11 sacks while playing only 41% of Detroit’s defensive snaps. He also recorded 53 pressures, making him one of the Lions’ most efficient pass rushers.
Muhammad has multiple connections to the Jets’ staff, including Glenn from Detroit and New Orleans, and offensive coordinator Frank Reich from Indianapolis.
Why it makes sense:
Productive edge rusher
Familiarity with coaching staff
Affordable depth with upside
- CB Amik Robertson
Amik Robertson revived his career in Detroit as a top nickel corner. Despite being undersized, Robertson plays with physicality and competitiveness that mirrors Glenn’s defensive philosophy.
The Jets may look to upgrade the slot corner role if Jarvis Brownlee doesn’t lock it down long-term.
Why it makes sense:
Scheme fit
Strong relationship with Glenn
Reliable nickel defender
- S Ifeatu Melifonwu
Ifeatu Melifonwu spent four seasons in Detroit and later rebounded with the Dolphins in 2025. Injuries limited him early in his career, but he showed he can still contribute as a rotational defensive back.
With Andre Cisco unlikely to return, Melifonwu could provide depth alongside Malachi Moore.
Why it makes sense:
Familiar with Glenn’s system
Low-risk signing
Versatile secondary piece
- DE Marcus Davenport
Marcus Davenport has long been tied to Glenn dating back to New Orleans. When healthy, Davenport is a disruptive pass rusher, but injuries have defined his career.
After stints with the Vikings and Lions, Davenport could be available on a short-term, incentive-based deal.
Why it makes sense:
High-upside gamble
Known by Glenn
Could bolster edge depth cheaply
Final Take
With cap space and pressure to win immediately, the Jets are positioned to be aggressive in 2026 free agency. Aaron Glenn’s connections in Detroit create a clear path toward familiar, trusted players who fit his culture and scheme.
Alex Anzalone leads the list, but names like Al-Quadin Muhammad, Amik Robertson, Ifeatu Melifonwu, and Marcus Davenport all make sense depending on cost and roster needs.
Keywords: Jets free agency 2026, Aaron Glenn Jets, former Lions free agents, Alex Anzalone Jets, NFL offseason rumors
