3 potential X-factors on the New York Jets defense vs. the Denver Broncos in Week 6

Identifying some potential X-factors for the New York Jets' defense against the Denver Broncos in Week 6.

The New York Jets have a tough matchup against Sean Payton and his Denver Broncos offense this weekend.

Denver Broncos head coach Payton is one of the most brilliant offensive play-callers in the NFL, and New York bench boss Aaron Glenn's defense will have to match his creativity and aggressiveness.

Jets Wire's identified some potential X-factors for the Jets' defense in a tough Week 6 showdown with the Broncos.

Will McDonald IV, EDGE

Oct 29, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets Will McDonald IV (99) at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is an athletic signal-caller who loves to move the pocket. The Jets' pass rushers must stay disciplined to make him uncomfortable. If any Jets defensive end is going to succeed and sack Nix, it's probably Will McDonald IV.

Harrison Phillips, DT

Sep 14, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips (97) before the game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Coach Payton has been running the football effectively through two running backs, J.K. Dobbins and rookie RJ Harvey, this season. Veteran Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips must win some matchups with a stout Broncos interior offensive line to stuff a couple of runs at the line of scrimmage. Phillips is the Jets' best run stopper.

Jamien Sherwood, LB

Sep 29, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) makes a catch and run against New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood (44) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Speaking of stopping Dobbins and Harvey, linebacker Jamien Sherwood must come downhill and play an aggressive game. Fellow linebacker Quincy Williams remains on IR with his shoulder injury. His absence has added even more importance to Sherwood's role on defense, and rookie Kiko Mauioga has been starting, too.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets vs. Broncos: 3 X-factors on offense for Week 6

Category: Football