New York Jets Terminate Contract of Former Patriots Defender

The New York Jets have released safety John Saunders Jr. from their practice squad, returning the former New England Patriots defensive back to the open market. Saunders had initially joined New York's practice squad on September 15 after clearing waivers at the end of August. The non-guaranteed transaction carries minimal salary-cap impact for the Jets.

Saunders, an undrafted rookie out of Ole Miss in 2025, previously spent time with the Miami Dolphins and Patriots. During New England's 2026 training camp, he led the team with five practice interceptions before being waived following a trade for Jaylen Reed. He is immediately eligible to sign with another NFL team.