Simpson’s Lesson on Adversity for Jets Teammates

LONDON — John Simpson, who learned an important lesson early in his career with the Raiders, is now trying to share it with his younger teammates on the Jets.

“Bad things, they happen even to the best teams out there,” he said. “What really counts is how we respond when those bad things occur. If we can grasp that, and understand who we are in tough times, I think we have a chance to be a better team.”

The Jets, unfortunately, have struggled with adversity this season—hence their 0-5 record. Turnovers have been a significant issue, especially in the last two games. Fumbles against the Dolphins and Cowboys have seemed to take the wind out of their sails, and they haven’t managed to bounce back from those setbacks.

After last week’s defeat to the Cowboys, Simpson was visibly emotional as he spoke to reporters. Later, he reflected on what he felt:

“For me, I’m competitive—I’m not going to pretend otherwise; I hate losing,” he shared. “When these things happen, we talked a lot about adversity. Personally, I’ve faced quite a bit.”

He emphasized his desire to guide others through tough times, stating, “I feel like I’m here to help teammates navigate and push through adversity. We’re a young team, and many of us haven’t encountered much in the way of challenges. I take this personally because I believe that adversity has shaped me. It means a lot to me.”

Despite being just 28 years old, Simpson is considered one of the veterans on the team, and he’s focused on helping his younger teammates better handle tough situations.

Meanwhile, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and Broncos coach Sean Payton share a long history. Payton was part of the Cowboys’ coaching staff while Glenn played there in 2005, and Glenn also played for Payton in New Orleans in 2008. Glenn was on Payton’s coaching staff in New Orleans from 2016 to 2020. This Sunday, two of Bill Parcells’ former protégés will clash.

“I owe much of my coaching development to Sean,” Glenn remarked. “He’s an incredible coach with a sharp offensive mind, and he knows how to exploit different defenses. I admire everything about him and can’t wait to go up against him.”

In roster news, the Jets have promoted wide receivers Brandon Smith and Isaiah Williams from the practice squad while downgrading linebacker Ja Marquis Weston from questionable to out.