Offensive, defensive lines among things to watch in Jets’ preseason opener

Here’s what to look for in the Jets’ first preseason game against the Commanders on Saturday.

1. You won’t see any of the Jets starting offensive line, but the Jets know that they will need backups to play this season.

They always do.

This game will give us a feel for the Jets’ depth on the line.

It starts with first-round pick Olu Fashanu and how he fares in his first game action.

But Carter Warren and Max Mitchell also have something to prove here. 

2. Will McDonald has a great opportunity to show he deserves more playing time this season.

The 2023 first-round pick should get a decent amount of playing time in this game.

He needs to get to the quarterback.

With Haason Reddick still holding out, McDonald is getting more reps than he would have in camp.

He needs to show the coaches he is ready for a big role this season. 

3. Xavier Gipson and Jason Brownlee were two surprises last summer.

The two undrafted free agents both made the team and saw significant playing time last year.

Now, they are no longer the underdogs.

The Jets have a crowded wide receiver room and these two are going to need to fight for their roles.