Marcus Maye is another young player that is climbing the ranks as one of the best safeties in the NFL. A second-round pick out of Florida in 2017, Maye was an instant starter for the New York Jets and has played all over the field for Gang Green.
Though listed exclusively as a free safety, according to PFF he has lined up as a box safety and at slot corner more than 100 times over the last four years. That type of versatility is not common and shows off the athletic ability and intelligence that Maye possesses which would be a tremendous asset for any defense.
That versatility doesn’t take away from his key traits which are providing excellent coverage as a deep safety.
Maye’s 2020 stat line shows off that versatility as he had two interceptions, 11 passes defended, two sacks, four tackles for loss, and 88 tackles. This was all on one of the worst defenses in the NFL but Maye still managed to stand out and make plays.
The Jets let Jamal Adams leave town recently and would be remiss to let two excellent safeties depart in back to back seasons, but the Raiders could entice him with a long-term deal at around $15 million per year. The early reports are that the Jets will do their part to keep him around long term and the former Gator may want to be part of the potential turnaround in New York.