2025 will be a year of change and learning in MetLife Stadium. Under a new head coach, the New York Jets attempt to rebuild under the leadership of Aaron Glenn. The former Jets cornerback and scout is in his third tenure with the organization. Thus far, he and general manager Darren Mougey have done well to add youth throughout the depth chart. However, they’ve also been a place to offer a second chance for young veterans like Andre Cisco. For both the Jets and Andre Cisco, it can be mutually beneficial.
While all eyes point to new starting quarterback Justin Fields, the team made another major addition from the 2021 NFL Draft class. After spending his entire career in Jacksonville, the Jets signed this veteran safety to a one-year contract. For Andre Cisco, this is more than just a starting job. As of now, Andre Cisco is projected to start at free safety for the Jets. After graduating from Syracuse, Andre Cisco wants to make an impact on the Jets. This is an opportunity for the Long Island native to take full advantage of this return to the tri-state area.
Long Island Native Excited for First Season With the Jets
Looking to improve the Jets secondary, general manager Darren Mougey had to be cautious. After the struggles of Chuck Clark, a year removed from a torn ACL, he had to pick the right player. Thus, Mougey knew he could take a swing at someone unexpected. As a result, he acted fast to sign veteran Andre Cisco to the Jets on March 14th. Some questioned why the team would take a chance on the longtime Jacksonville Jaguar. While he was productive, few thought he lived up to the potential he showcased at Syracuse before his knee injury. However, the Jets believe that there’s more football ahead for the new Jets safety.
Valley Stream, NY native Andre Cisco signed by the Jets
As previously stated, Andre Cisco grew up in New York. After two seasons playing for St Anthony’s High School in South Hampton, NY, Cisco transferred to IMG Academy in Florida as an upperclassman in high school. From there, his journey would take him back to New York, where he committed to Syracuse University. Cisco made a great first impression in his freshman year for the Orange. In addition, longtime New York Giants backup quarterback Tommy Devito was also in Cisco’s recruiting class. Through 13 games, Cisco hauled in an impressive seven interceptions, tied for the national lead. Along with 60 total tackles, Cisco finished his freshman season as the ACC defensive rookie of the year. The Orange finished 10-3 and ranked 15th in the nation under head coach Dino Babers that season.
Cisco’s success would continue in his sophomore year, as he finished with five interceptions, including his first career pick-six through nine games. However, his junior year would be disastrous after he suffered a torn ACL after only two games into the season. Despite the lost season, Cisco finished fourth all-time in career interceptions for the school. As a result, Cisco immediately forewent his last year of eligibility and declared his intent to enter the draft after the injury. Cisco was well regarded as one of the best safeties in the draft, but the knee injury forced Cisco to wait. He was selected with the 65th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Cisco’s tenure with the Jaguars
Cisco started in three of his four seasons during his time in Jacksonville. While never reaching the full potential he flashed at Syracuse. Cisco was productive during his tenure. Since moving into a starting role, Cisco has averaged nearly 68 tackles a season. He’s also amassed eight career interceptions in 47 starts, including four interceptions in 2023. Among those picks is intercepting two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs. Cisco’s tackling ability was valuable to Jacksonville this season. In week 14, Cisco’s season high of eight tackles was a difference maker in the Jaguars 10-7 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
Every Andre Cisco interception
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Andre Cisco’s fit on the Jets
Returning home to New York, Andre Cisco has a great opportunity with the Jets. Arriving on a one-year deal, Cisco can prove he deserves a payday day his next contract with a great season. Fortunately, he’s playing for a former Pro Bowl cornerback as his head coach. Aaron Glenn’s reputation around the league for developing defensive backs can get Andre playing his best football yet. On the Jets, Cisco will take advantage of his ball-tracking skills of any passes thrown Sauce Gardner’s way. In addition, Cisco’s ability to get interceptions will make up for Brandon Stephens’s struggles generating turnovers.
When analyzing the Detroit Lions defense, Aaron Glenn found a talented duo in the secondary between Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Last season, Aaron Glenn watched as Joseph led the NFL in interceptions. With a talented cornerback like Sauce Gardner in the secondary and playing alongside impressive rookie Malachi Moore, Cisco can generate more turnovers in the Jets secondary. The signing of Andre Cisco is a gamble for both the player and the Jets. However, both parties can benefit greatly if it works out.
Main Photo: [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] – USA Today Sports
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