Even with one of the league’s most experienced defensive coaching staffs and a lineup boasting multiple All-Pros, longtime WFAN host Mike Francesa isn’t buying the New York Jets’ defensive hype.

Joining WFAN with host Sal Licata on Thursday, Francesa was asked about Sauce Gardner and his confidence in Gang Green’s defense, and he didn’t shy away from what he believes the Jets’ top cornerback needs to accomplish this year.

“I do not [think he is great],” Francesa proclaimed. “I think he is too worried about his status in the league and his press things. I think he needs to play harder, and I think he needs to play the position as an All-Pro corner does, which means you play the run and the pass.”

Gardner, who signed a four-year, $120 million extension this offseason and is considered one of the league’s elite defensive backs, is on the heels of his worst NFL season. While some Jets fans continue to give the Jets’ CB1 a tough time, others believe he’s ready to bounce back significantly.

An even greater percentage of fans believe the defense will play much better under Aaron Glenn and Steve Wilks.

Unlike the optimism swirling among those Jets fans, Francesa’s expectations are not sky high for the defense as a unit.

“I think the defense is okay; I don’t think it is great,” said the longtime radio host. “I don’t think it is as good as it was. I think the defense a couple of years ago was tremendous; it took a huge step back last year. I think it is going to be middle of the road … in the 10-15 range.”

Francesa’s criticism doesn’t align with the numbers. Per Pro Football Focus, Gardner earned the NFL’s highest advanced coverage grade last season and excelled in limited shadow assignments.

While his 2024 production dipped from his record-setting first two years, the Jets’ star corner remains elite.

A two-time First-Team All-Pro, the only corner in league history to earn the honor in each of his first two seasons, Gardner still allowed just 24 catches, the fewest in the NFL, and faced the second-lowest target rate.

With Glenn and Wilks expected to lean on more press-man coverage and added pressure, the scheme should fit Gardner’s strengths perfectly.

If the coaching staff can unlock the full potential of a defense led by Sauce Gardner, the New York Jets could quickly prove Francesa wrong and reestablish themselves among the NFL’s most productive units.