Jets Sign Former Chiefs Defensive Tackle Derrick Nnadi in Blockbuster Deal
The New York Jets have made a significant move in free agency by signing veteran defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, who previously played for the Kansas City Chiefs. This acquisition strengthens their defensive front and adds a championship-caliber player to their roster.
Nnadi’s Journey from Kansas City to New York
Derrick Nnadi, 28, was a key contributor to the Kansas City Chiefs’ dominant defensive unit over the past seven seasons. Selected in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Florida State, Nnadi quickly proved himself as a reliable presence in the middle of the defensive line.
Throughout his time with the Chiefs, he played in 115 regular-season games, starting 87 of them. Over the course of his career, he recorded 233 tackles, five sacks, and one interception. His durability and consistency made him a valuable asset, as he missed only two games in seven seasons. He was also a key figure in Kansas City’s playoff success, starting in 12 out of 16 postseason appearances and helping the team win three Super Bowl titles.
Why the Jets Wanted Nnadi
The Jets’ decision to sign Nnadi was driven by a pressing need to reinforce their defensive interior. The departure of defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw to the Washington Commanders left a gap that required immediate attention. By acquiring Nnadi, the Jets have added a seasoned veteran who can bring leadership, experience, and stability to their defense.
Nnadi’s playing style fits well with what head coach Aaron Glenn and defensive coordinator Steve Wilks envision for the Jets’ defense. While he is not known for flashy stats, his ability to clog running lanes and disrupt offenses makes him a crucial addition. His skill set complements Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, who thrives in both pass-rushing and run-stopping situations.
Nnadi’s Role with the Jets
Though he saw his role shift to a rotational position in Kansas City last season, appearing in all 17 games with just one start, he remained an important part of the Chiefs’ defensive front. Now with the Jets, he has an opportunity to regain a starting role and contribute significantly.
Alongside Nnadi, the Jets have also signed defensive tackles Byron Cowart and Jay Tufele, further bolstering their depth at the position. The team’s strategy appears to focus on acquiring young, affordable free agents who can provide quality depth while maintaining financial flexibility for future roster moves.
Expectations for the 2025 Season
The addition of Nnadi signals the Jets’ commitment to improving their defense as they prepare for the upcoming season. Last year, the Jets showed promise but struggled with consistency on the defensive line. Nnadi’s experience in high-pressure situations—especially in the postseason—should prove invaluable as the team looks to make a playoff push.
With training camp around the corner, all eyes will be on how Nnadi integrates into the Jets’ system. If he performs as expected, this signing could be one of the most impactful moves of the offseason for New York.