'We go as they go': Jets defensive line shines in episode 2 of 'Hard Knocks'

Much like it did against Carolina, New York's defensive line took center stage in episode two of "Hard Knocks."

While Solomon Thomas didn't get to take the unit out to a Broadway show and dine on a charcuterie board, it did feast on the Panthers' offensive line, both during the teams' joint practice and the game.

"We go as they go," head coach Robert Saleh said of the defensive line during one practice.

Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, fresh off signing a four-year, $96M contract extension in July, received a decent amount of screentime and was instantly likable. 

The same could be said of rookie defensive end Will McDonald IV, who cameras followed early in the episode as he got his eyebrow and nose pierced. He was later captured after the game against Carolina documenting his first NFL sack, asserting it would be his first of many as a Jet.

New York's defensive line emerged last season as one of the best in football, with Williams being the unit's best player. He led the team with 12 sacks and 28 quarterback hits and was named an All-Pro First Team member following the season.

McDonald was selected 15th overall by New York during the 2023 NFL Draft after playing at Iowa State from 2018-22. He finished his collegiate career with 34 sacks, including consecutive double-digit sack seasons in 2020 and 2021.

Both Williams and McDonald are doing their part to maintain the defensive line's high standard. And after its fantastic game against the Panthers, the unit deserved the spotlight. 

As Saleh noted, the defensive line is the backbone of this Jets team. During a team meeting, he also noted the team needs more than its defensive front to reach a Super Bowl.

In a blunt assessment of the Jets in 2022, Saleh said, "We proved last year we're a 7-10 football team with a really f----in' good defense and a mediocre offense."

It's up to Aaron Rodgers and the offense to match the defense's level and on this week's episode of "Hard Knocks," we got a closer look at what the offense is chasing.