The New York Jets have begun the process of trimming their roster in preparation for the 2025 season. On August 24, 2025, the team announced the release of veteran linebacker Jamin Davis and the waiving of six other players. These decisions mark the first significant changes to the Jets’ roster and will inevitably impact the team’s depth chart. This article breaks down these transactions and examines their potential implications for the Jets as they head into the upcoming season. Understanding these roster adjustments is crucial for fans and analysts alike, as they provide insight into the team’s strategic direction and areas of focus.
Impact of Jamin Davis’ Release on the Linebacker Corps
Jamin Davis, a former first-round pick, was released by the Jets after a brief stint with the team. Davis had re-signed with the Jets in March and recorded 6 tackles and 1 sack in preseason action. While his preseason performance showed some promise, the Jets ultimately decided to move in a different direction. His departure creates a void in the linebacker corps, potentially opening up opportunities for younger players or prompting the team to explore free-agent options. The Jets claimed Davis off waivers on December 31, 2024. He played nine games last season split between Washington (5) and Minnesota (4), totaling 18 tackles (12 solo) and 1 sack while taking 106 defensive snaps. The Jets will need to find a replacement to fill his role on special teams and as a depth player at linebacker.
QB Adrian Martinez Waived: What It Means for the Quarterback Room
Adrian Martinez, a first-year quarterback from Kansas State, was among the players waived by the Jets. Martinez completed 58.8% of his throws for 352 yards with 1 TD and 2 INTs over three summer games. Martinez had signed with the Jets last July and threw for 270 yards, 0 touchdowns and 1 interception while completing 53.2% of his passes in preseason play. He signed a reserve/futures deal with the Green & White in January. With Aaron Rodgers firmly entrenched as the starter and a capable backup already in place, Martinez was unlikely to make the final roster. His release solidifies the Jets’ quarterback depth chart. The team may look to add another quarterback to the practice squad for developmental purposes.
TE Zack Kuntz Cut: Assessing the Tight End Situation
Zack Kuntz, a seventh-round pick by the Jets in the 2023 draft, was also waived. He had 2 receptions for 15 yards in preseason action. Kuntz’s release suggests that he did not progress as the team had hoped. The Jets will likely rely on their established tight ends. The team may explore other options to bolster their depth at the position. The team will need to evaluate their current tight end options and determine whether they need to add a veteran presence or develop a younger player.
Other Roster Moves: Fletcher, Fornadel, McCalister, and Toafili
In addition to Davis, Martinez and Kuntz, the Jets waived DE Michael Fletcher, T Liam Fornadel, DB Tanner McCalister, and RB Lawrance Toafili. Fletcher, a rookie out of Appalachian State, had 2 tackles and 1 PD in the preseason. Fornadel, a James Madison product, had a stint with the Patriots in 2024 and spent most of last season on their practice squad before he was released in December. McCalister, a first-year DB from Ohio State, had six tackles in exhibition play. Toafili had a 19-yard scoring run in the Jets’ 19-17 preseason loss to the Eagles on Saturday night. These moves further refine the Jets’ roster and provide clarity on the team’s direction as they approach the regular season. Each of these players had an opportunity to showcase their talents during training camp and the preseason, but the Jets ultimately decided to move forward with other options. These cuts will likely lead to other additions as the team looks to fill out its practice squad and address any remaining needs.
Overall Impact on the Jets’ 2025 Roster
These roster cuts represent the initial steps in the Jets’ final roster construction for the 2025 season. The decisions made by the coaching staff and front office will shape the team’s identity and impact their performance on the field. The Jets will continue to evaluate their options and make adjustments as needed. The team may look to the waiver wire to add players who have been released by other teams. They may also consider bringing back some of the players they released on their practice squad. The Jets will need to carefully manage their roster in order to maximize their chances of success.
Jets’ Waived/Released List
| Player | Pos | Exp | Transaction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Fletcher | DE | R | Waived |
| Liam Fornadel | T | 1 | Waived |
| Zack Kuntz | TE | 1 | Waived |
| Adrian Martinez | QB | 1 | Waived |
| Tanner McCalister | DB | 1 | Waived |
| Lawrance Toafili | RB | R | Waived |
| Jamin Davis | LB | 5 | Released |
The New York Jets’ initial roster cuts for the 2025 season have provided a glimpse into the team’s evolving plans. The release of Jamin Davis and the waiving of six other players signal a strategic shift and a focus on specific areas of need. As the Jets continue their preparations for the upcoming season, these roster adjustments will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s final composition and overall competitiveness. The Jets will need to make the most of their remaining roster spots and continue to develop their young players in order to compete for a championship.
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