New York Jets' Forgotten Man Issues Social Media Warning

The New York Jets have made changes to their defensive line this offseason, but edge rusher John Franklin-Myers remains in the rotation after starting 50 out of a possible 51 games the past three years.
Nov 6, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91)
Nov 6, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91) / Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
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New York Jets' defensive end John Franklin-Myers has been somewhat of a forgotten man this offseason, but underestimate him at your own risk.

Through all the attention given to free agent Bryce Huff as well as the subsequent trade for Haason Reddick, there has been little talk about Franklin-Myers, who has started every game in the past two seasons.

Nov 6, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91)
Nov 6, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91) / Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Once thought of as a potential salary cap casualty, Franklin-Myers seems to be staying put and will almost definitely play a significant role in a Jets' edge rusher rotation that features Reddick, 2022 first-round pick pick Jermaine Johnson and 2023 first-rounder Will McDonald.

With offseason workouts set to kick off on April 15, Franklin-Myers is hinting at a productive season ahead. The 2018 fourth-round draft pick, who is under contract for a reported $13.8 million annually, has posted multiple social media messages with motivational undertones.

"Live my life like a nail tech, no matter what keep pressing on," said Franklin-Myers in an April 7 tweet.

Earning the nickname "Caption King" from Jets' RB1 Breece Hall, Franklin-Myers posted four more photos along with a creative message on Saturday.

"Drop me in the middle of the jungle I’m bringing home bacon singing hakuna Matata," said Franklin-Myers while smoothly inserting a "Lion King" allusion.

In 2023, Franklin-Myers totaled 3.5 sacks, 14 quarterback hits and three pass deflections while also proving stout against the run. He made 26 stops on rushing plays, including 3.0 tackles-for-loss.

The 27-year-old Franklin-Myers has made no fewer than 3.0 sacks and 13 quarterback hits in any of his four seasons as a Jet.


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Ralph Ventre
RALPH VENTRE

Ralph, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20 years of media experience to the New York Jets beat. Prior to concentrating on Gang Green, he covered the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on FanNation. Ventre remains as an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America. The veteran sports media professional resides in his native state of New Jersey.