In a surprise move, the Jets have released cornerback Bless Austin, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
The Rutgers product was initially expected to play a prominent role in Gang Green’s secondary this season, but he had been involved in recent trade talks prior to the NFL deadline to reach 53 players on the roster. Austin was originally looking like a prime candidate to play alongside Bryce Hall at cornerback.
A sixth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Austin made six starts in his rookie year and 10 last season. He logged four passes defensed and a forced fumble in both seasons.
With Austin out of the mix, rookies Isaiah Dunn and Brandin Echols will be likely candidates to slide into the cornerback role. The shift continues for a Jets defense that will look a lot different than initially expected, as edge rushers Vinny Curry and Carl Lawson have both already been lost for the season.
In another move, the Jets did make an addition to their secondary by signing safety Sheldrick Redwine to the active roster.
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