Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets

The 2024 NFL season has been a breakout year for the New York Jets, and much of their success can be attributed to the standout performance of their team units—from a dominant defensive line to a reliable special teams group. This year, those units are getting the recognition they deserve, with multiple Jets units earning prestigious league awards and nominations. Unlike individual honors, these awards highlight the power of teamwork, showcasing how players, coaches, and support staff work together to achieve a common goal. For the Jets, whose identity has long been rooted in collective effort, the recognition is a validation of their “team-first” culture. Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets explores the award-winning units, their key contributions to the Jets’ success, and what the honors mean for the franchise’s future.

Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets begins with the Jets’ defensive line, which was named the NFL’s “Most Dominant Defensive Front” by Pro Football Focus (PFF). Led by defensive ends Danielle Hunter and Jermaine Johnson II, and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, the unit ranked first in the league in sacks (58) and tackles for loss (92) this season—numbers that haven’t been seen by a Jets defensive line since the 2000s “New York Sack Exchange” era. What made the unit stand out was its consistency: they recorded at least three sacks in 12 of 17 games, including a season-high seven sacks in a Week 12 win over the Buffalo Bills. PFF’s analysis praised the unit’s versatility, noting that they excelled in both pass-rushing and run-stopping—ranked second in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per carry (3.6). “This defensive line isn’t just about one player—it’s about everyone working in sync,” said defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton. “Danielle’s leadership, Quinnen’s strength in the middle, and Jermaine’s energy off the edge—they feed off each other. This award is a testament to their hard work and chemistry.” The unit also earned three Pro Bowl selections, with Hunter, Williams, and Johnson all named to the AFC roster.

A key award-winning unit for the Jets is their special teams group, which took home the NFL’s “Special Teams Unit of the Year” award from the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA). The Jets’ special teams had a historic season, leading the league in punt return average (12.8 yards per return), kickoff return touchdowns (two), and field goal percentage (92.3%, with kicker Greg Zuerlein making 24 of 26 attempts). Punter Braden Mann was a standout, averaging 48.2 yards per punt and placing 32% of his punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard line—helping the Jets win the field position battle in most games. The unit’s most memorable moment came in Week 9, when returner Andre Roberts returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown to seal a 24-21 win over the New England Patriots. “Special teams is often the unsung hero of football, so it’s amazing to see this group get recognized,” said special teams coordinator Brant Boyer. “Every player on this unit—from the returners to the blockers to the kickers—takes pride in their role. They know that special teams can win or lose games, and they’ve stepped up every week.” The award marks the first time the Jets’ special teams have won a league-wide unit honor since 1998.

A critical aspect of Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets is the Jets’ offensive line, which was nominated for the “Best Pass-Blocking Unit” award by NFL.com—and what it means for the current New York Jets team. After a rocky start to the season (allowing 18 sacks in the first six games), the offensive line turned things around, allowing just 12 sacks in the final 11 games—ranking sixth in the NFL in pass-blocking efficiency over that stretch. The turnaround was led by veteran left tackle George Fant, who stepped in for the injured Mekhi Becton and allowed just two sacks all season, and rookie right tackle Carter Warren, who improved steadily as the season progressed. The line’s improvement was crucial for quarterback Zach Wilson, who went from being sacked once every 12 dropbacks in the first six games to once every 22 dropbacks in the final 11. “The offensive line’s growth this season has been incredible,” said head coach Robert Saleh. “They took their early struggles as a challenge, and they worked tirelessly to get better. Their improvement has given Zach time to throw, opened up running lanes for our backs, and been a big reason for our late-season success.” For the New York Jets, the nomination is a sign of progress: the offensive line has long been a weak spot for the franchise, and the recognition shows that the unit is finally becoming a strength.

Another important angle of Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets is the Jets’ secondary, which earned “Most Improved Defensive Backfield” honors from ESPN—and how it’s boosting the New York Jets’ playoff hopes. The secondary, which ranked 28th in the NFL in passing yards allowed in 2023, jumped to 12th in 2024, recording 17 interceptions (tied for fourth in the league) and 65 pass deflections (fifth in the league). The improvement was driven by safety Jordan Whitehead (who led the team with five interceptions) and cornerback Sauce Gardner (who bounced back from a down 2023 season to record 18 pass deflections). The secondary’s best performance came in Week 14, when they held Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson to 189 passing yards and intercepted him twice in a 21-14 Jets win. “Our secondary has gone from a liability to a strength,” said defensive coordinator Tony Oden. “They’ve worked on their communication, refined their techniques, and developed a trust in each other. When your secondary can shut down opposing receivers, it makes your entire defense better.” For the New York Jets, the honor is a boost heading into the playoffs: a strong secondary will be crucial against teams with potent passing offenses, like the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens.

Wrapping up Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets is the broader impact of these unit awards on the Jets’ franchise and fan base. Unlike individual awards, which often focus on star players, unit awards celebrate the collective effort that makes football a team sport. For the Jets, this recognition reinforces their “all for one” culture and shows that the team is building something sustainable—not just relying on a few standout players. For fans, the awards are a source of pride: after years of watching the Jets struggle, they’re now seeing multiple units recognized as among the best in the NFL. The Jets organization has embraced the honors, hosting a “Unit Awards Night” at MetLife Stadium where players and coaches from each award-winning unit were recognized in front of fans. “These awards aren’t just for the players on the field—they’re for every coach, every trainer, every member of our support staff who works behind the scenes,” said Jets president Hymie Elhai. “They’re a reminder that success in football is a team effort, and we’re grateful to see our units get the recognition they deserve.” For the New York Jets, the unit awards are more than just trophies—they’re a sign that the franchise is on the right track, building a team that can compete for championships for years to come. Awards Shine on Units of the New York Jets isn’t just a story about honors; it’s a story about a team coming together, playing as one, and finally getting the recognition they’ve earned.