In the wake of Avery Williamson's season-ending ACL tear, the New York Jets are signing veteran inside linebacker Stephone Anthony, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Anthony previously played under Jets head coach Adam Gase for the Miami Dolphins.
The Atlanta Falcons released Anthony on August 18th, in favor of signing cornerback Jalen Myrick.
A Clemson product and first-round pick via the New Orleans Saints in 2015, the Jets will be Anthony's fourth team to play with since 2017.
As a rookie in 2015, Anthony led his class in tackles with 112 (combined) and also recorded five tackles for a loss, four quarterback hits, a sack, an interception, and five pass deflections. By all accounts, his stock was rising after one season. But, then, the Saints switched him to strong-side linebacker; where he struggled and ultimately finished his sophomore season on the injured reserve.
After two seasons of play, New Orleans shipped Anthony off to Miami for a 2018 fifth-round pick. During his two years in South Beach — under Gase — Anthony played but didn't start in 24 games. He recorded 22 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, and one quarterback hit in his Miami tenure.
The Dolphins declined Anthony's fifth-year option in 2017, making him a free agent in 2018. He visited multiple teams before signing with the Falcons.
It's unclear if Anthony will step in as a starter alongside five-time Pro Bowler C.J. Mosley. Promising rookie Blake Cashman, hailing from Minnesota, maybe in-line for the starting role. Neville Hewitt, James Burgess, and Albert McClennan should also compete with Anthony to win the job.
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