The New York Jets have bolstered their defensive lineup by signing safety Lewis Cine to their practice squad. A first-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Cine was waived on Tuesday after the team was unable to trade him. Following this, he cleared waivers and joined the Jets, who plan to promote him to the active roster once he has acclimated to the team’s playbook.
Cine, who suffered a leg fracture during his rookie season in Week 4, has participated in only ten defensive plays thus far, registering just one tackle. In preseason, he showcased his potential by leading the team with 150 snaps, accumulating 13 tackles and one sack.
Currently, the Jets’ starting safety positions are occupied by Tony Adams and Chuck Clark, with Ashtyn Davis and Isaiah Oliver as their backups. Oliver, initially a cornerback, transitioned to safety in the offseason, but Cine’s addition allows for a return to his former role as a nickelback.
In addition to Cine, the Jets also claimed tight end Brenden Bates from the Chicago Bears on waivers. Cine’s departure from the Vikings marks the end of a challenging tenure, as he faced a tough road back from a significant leg injury and struggled to make an impact under the new defensive coaching staff.