The New York Jets signed a cornerback from their own ranks last season and the first results are promising.
After a disappointing rookie season, Jarrick Bernard-Converse started afresh in 2024. The versatile defensive back was drafted in the sixth round by LSU as a safety and changed positions at the request of the Jets coaching staff.
“He’s a cornerback. We moved him back. We made the decision after the season when we were evaluating the roster and figuring out what direction we wanted to go with our defense,” fourth-year head coach Robert Saleh said a week after training camp began.
Bernard-Converse, who played four seasons for Oklahoma State before transferring to LSU, started 25 times at cornerback for the Big 12 Conference member, and so far, his return to the position is paying off for the Jets.
Bernard-Converse, 24, has been performing well in practice, according to multiple reports, including Saleh. In New York’s season opener against the Washington Commanders, the second-year pro produced some good game footage that likely improves his chances of a backup role.
Despite playing model coverage on the play, Bernard-Converse caught a 42-yard pass from Jayden Daniels on the Commanders’ third snap. Bernard-Converse responded to that unfortunate moment by blocking opposing receivers the rest of the day.
“JBC, that was maybe the coolest one from a defensive standpoint because he got hit on that go ball. It’s very easy to fail and get caught up in your own thoughts and be scared,” Saleh said. “He still played chest to chest. He played tight guard. He still played his pressing technique and made a lot of plays with the ball. I don’t think he allowed another one. Really proud of JBC and the way he came back after that go ball.”
Bernard-Converse’s next three tackles limited Washington to a total of seven yards. He also forced an incomplete pass in pass coverage late in the first quarter.
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• Undrafted WR continues comeback with touchdown catch in Jets’ season opener
