Jets surprisingly retain free agent safety

Sep 14, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) rushes the ball past New York Jets safety Andre Cisco (8) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Most observers (myself included) assumed the Jets were going to part ways with safety Andre Cisco this offseason. Cisco signed a one year deal with the team in 2025, but his play was disappointing.

In a surprising move, the Jets agreed to terms to retain Cisco on a new one year deal.

The #Jets make another defensive move, as Andre Cisco agreed to terms to return to the #Jets on a 1-year deal worth up to $5.25M, source said.

Deal done by agents David Mulugheta and Andre Odom. pic.twitter.com/MnWQeJPqwf

- Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2026

The Jets have made a number of additions at safety in the early days of this offseason, trading for Minkah Fitzpatrick and signing Dane Belton.

We can presume Fitzpatrick will be starting. It isn't clear who will man the other starting safety spot. Fitzpatrick also played the slot a lot for Miami a year ago. If the Jets play him in a similar role, they will be playing a lot of three safety looks, which opens up more playing time.

Based on what we saw from Cisco in 2025, I'm not sure why the Jets decided to retain him. At least he won't be terribly expensive.