Jets release DB Darryl Roberts, sign DB Marqui Christian to one-year deal

Christian likely to be team's third safety

3/21/2020, 7:46 PM
Nov 10, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive back Marqui Christian (26) defends against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 17-12. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports / Charles LeClaire
Nov 10, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive back Marqui Christian (26) defends against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 17-12. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports / Charles LeClaire

The Jets shuffled up their secondary a bit on Saturday afternoon. 

The team announced that defensive back Darryl Roberts had been released, and almost immediately after, the Jets signed fellow defensive back Marqui Christian

Per SNY's Ralph Vacciano, Christian's deal is a one-year contract worth $1.25 million.

 

Cutting Roberts is not much of a surprise, as the move freed up $6 million in cap space. The 29-year-old still had two years left on his contract with Gang Green, but his on-field performance simply didn't live up to his contract numbers. 

Roberts, a former seventh-round pick of the New England Patriots, played in 56 games over the last four seasons with the Jets, with 26 starts. He intercepted one pass in each of the last three seasons, and while he had the versatility to play both corner and safety, the Jets saw it best to cut ties.

In steps Christian, originally a fifth-round pick of Arizona in the 2016 NFL Draft. Christian was waived early into his rookie season and claimed by the Los Angeles Rams, where he' s spent the last four seasons.

Primarily a safety, Christian likely slots in as the Jets' third safety behind Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye, though he could also be used in dime looks by defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.  

Video: Jets sign C Connor McGovern for 3 years, $27 million

Popular in the Community