Seeing defensive tackle Jay Tufele for the first time this off-season at the open OTA practice last week, he looks like a guy who will help the Jets’ run defense.
The former Cincinnati Bengal is built like the trunk of a redwood. He’s listed at 6-3, but he’s actually 6-2 (based on his combine measurements), and he is thick from his neck to his toes.
Sometimes, defensive linemen are top-heavy with skinny legs, which hurts their ability to anchor, but this 305-pound defensive tackle carries his weight well, and his thick lower body and brute strength make him tough to move off his spot.
He looks like a similar player to former Jets nose tackle Sione Pouha, who was a stout run defender.
Not saying the Tufele is going to be a star for the Jets, but there is no doubt the two-time USC Defensive MVP will help the Jets’ interior run defense.
And that is certainly an area they need to improve.
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