Belton's Rise Threatens Cisco's Safety Starting Job

The safety battle at Jets training camp has been a major discussion point this offseason. One player who had a clear advantage in this competition was Andre Cisco, but his chances of being the starter opposite veteran Minkah Fitzpatrick have taken a hit. Cisco signed a one-year extension to remain with the team after entering free agency, but he's struggled to regain form following a 2025 season marred by a pectoral tear.

Meanwhile, Dane Belton has made a strong impression in training camp. A 2022 fourth-round pick of the New York Giants, Belton recorded 120 total tackles last season and forced four turnovers, numbers that no other Jets defender could match. He's also shown versatility, working off-ball, in the box, and as a cover safety.

Cisco, on the other hand, has been outshone by Belton in training camp. His coverage grade of 54.5 and run-defense grade of 75.6 last season ranked below average among safeties, according to Pro Football Focus. With Belton's impressive performance and Cisco's struggles, it's becoming increasingly likely that the safety position opposite Fitzpatrick will go to Belton.

Belton's ascension has been a long time coming, with his best season yet being last year when he recorded 120 tackles and added two sacks, three tackles for loss, five passes defended, one interception, and three forced fumbles. He also boasted the lowest missed tackle percentage (4.1%) among all safeties to play at least 400 snaps.