Days from the start of the regular season, decisions must be made for 53-man rosters. An annual conundrum for general managers across the league. It’s also important to understand that depth is crucial as well. A season could be ended in an instant by a random injury. While the talent in the secondary is impressive, New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn knows how vital good second and third-string players can be. On defense, the Jets’ greatest strength is their secondary. Of course, Sauce Gardner has been the narrative. Along with nickel corner Michael Carter II and new addition Brandon Stephens, they have stability among their starters. However, with rookie Azareye’h Thomas currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, New York has needed someone to step up. Thankfully, Jarrick Bernard-Converse has done so. After three seasons on the bench, Jarrick Bernard-Converse has earned a real shot.
Jets Sixth Round Pick Finding Success Ahead Of Third Season
On day three of the 2023 NFL Draft, the New York Jets drafted Jarrick Bernard-Converse in the sixth round. On his 23rd birthday, Bernard-Converse achieved a long-time goal. A Louisiana Native, Bernard-Converse began his collegiate career in Stillwater, Oklahoma, for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. As a true freshman, his impact was felt immediately. Jarrick Bernard-Converse finished fifth on the team with 59 combined tackles in 13 games. Along with an interception, a forced fumble, two sacks, and two pass breakups. In 2019, he followed that season with 54 combined tackles, two tackles for loss, one and a half sacks, and an interception. However, his breakout season came in 2021. Through 14 games, Bernard-Converse defended 10 passes with 48 combined tackles. With 10 passes defended, third best in the conference, Bernard-Converse received First Team All-Big 12 honors.
Highest-graded #Jets by PFF against Giants:
• Quentin Skinner: 91.9
• Michael Carter II: 90.4
• Rashad Weaver: 89.6
• Jarrick Bernard-Converse: 87.2
• Dean Clark: 86.7
• Brandon Stephens: 84.9
• Kingsley Jonathan: 82.7
• Jamin Davis: 77.3
• Donovan Edwards: 74.2— The Jet Press (@TheJetPress) August 17, 2025
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
After that breakout season, Bernard-Converse transferred to his hometown, Louisiana State University. Playing for Brian Kelly, Jarrick made a big impression. He had a career-high two interceptions to go along with 44 combined tackles and his first career fumble recovery. Through his tenures at LSU & Oklahoma State, Bernard-Converse played in 63 games with 174 solo tackles, five sacks, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
Jarrick Bernard-Converse’s patience is starting to be rewarded
Despite his extensive college career, Bernard-Converse’s playing time has been limited thus far. Initially, the Jets depth within their secondary was too talented to steal snaps from. Between Sauce Gardner, DJ Reeed, Michael Carter II, etc., snaps at cornerback were tough to come by. As a result, Jarrick shifted from cornerback to safety. Fortunately, Bernard-Converse played eight games in his rookie season. However, it was barely impactful with only two total tackles. The same can be said for 2024. Last season, Bernard-Converse only played in seven games but had a career high of five tackles. Thankfully, after switching back to his natural position, Bernard-Converese was very impressive in coverage during the preseason.
Despite the new regime change, Jarrick is still in line for a reserve role. Between Gardner, Brandon Stephens, Michael Carter II, and Isaiah Oliver, New York is set at cornerback. However, with injuries affecting the entire secondary, Bernard-Converse has shone during his extended look this training camp. He took over the snaps that rookie Azareye’h Thomas would have played if not for his shoulder injury. In addition, Bernard-Converse now has an opportunity for not only a roster spot, but more playing time as well.
Special teams standout Kris Boyd was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury earlier this week. Special Teams Coordinator Chris Banjo spoke glowingly about the impact Boyd has had since signing. With Boyd injured along with fellow special teams ace Irvin Charles, New York needs bodies. Thus, Bernard-Converse has the opportunity to go from being a cut candidate to gaining a defined role this year.
Main Photo: [Vincent Carchietta] – USA Today Sports
The post Jets Sixth Round Pick Finding Success Ahead Of Third Season appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.