When John Simpson first signed a free-agent deal with the New York Jets, it didn’t move the needle much among the fanbase.

While the former third-round pick had resurrected his career a bit in Baltimore, the now 28-year-old had struggled mightily to begin his NFL journey with the Raiders. He was known as a highly undisciplined player who struggled in pass protection.

Since arriving in Florham Park, Simpson has established himself as a key part of the Jets’ offensive line. Not only has the Clemson product performed admirably on the field, but his leadership as a veteran on a young roster has been essential.

It’s Simpson’s leadership that the Jets have needed most in 2025.

Jets get proper leadership from veteran

For a franchise that has seen plenty of losing over the last 15 years, it’s easy to get frustrated over the lack of success.

Simpson is one of the veterans, though, who has remained positive throughout New York’s 3-10 performance during the current regular season. Speaking to reporters on Monday, the left guard made it clear that the team’s mindset remains the same, even after suffering a 34-10 blowout loss to the division-rival Miami Dolphins.

“I don’t want to say forget about it, but just turn the page, because that’s not really going to help us prepare for this week coming up,” he said. “So, in a sense, you’ve just got to wipe the slate clean and start over, start over brand new. That’s kind of how I look at it. And obviously, you do want to use that as fuel for the next week, but I feel like if you look too deep into that, you get lost in the sauce.”

Simpson’s comments are clear. He wants the young roster around him to focus on the journey to improve rather than the struggles that have brought the organization to its current state.

It’s also a good reminder that head coach Aaron Glenn’s message across the locker room is still being heard and accepted. Simpson, a proven leader, has lived the part of making sure the younger players adhere to Glenn’s vision.

It may not mean much for a 3-10 team right now, but in the future, it’s the kind of foundational wisdom that could alter the franchise’s course.