Jets Make Surprising Moves: Sign Zonovan Knight and Easop Winston Jr. to Practice Squad

The New York Jets have made several roster moves ahead of their Week 12 preparations, signing running back Zonovan Knight and wide receiver Easop Winston Jr. to the practice squad while releasing offensive lineman Zack Bailey. These changes reflect the team’s efforts to strengthen its depth as they continue to navigate the season.

Zonovan Knight Returns to the Jets

Zonovan “Bam” Knight, who previously had a stint with the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2022, has rejoined the team after spending last season with the Detroit Lions. Knight, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound back, showed promise during his rookie campaign, playing in seven games (four starts) and totaling 300 yards and one touchdown with a 3.5-yard average per carry. He also contributed on special teams with one kick return for 18 yards.

Knight’s familiarity with the Jets’ system and his solid rookie season make him a valuable addition to the practice squad. His explosiveness and ability to break off long runs were evident during his time at North Carolina State, where he finished as the Wolfpack’s all-time leader in rushing yards per attempt (5.45) and kickoff return yards (29.8 yards per return). This move adds depth to a Jets backfield that’s looking to stay competitive throughout the season.

Easop Winston Jr. Joins the Practice Squad

Wide receiver Easop Winston Jr. also joins the Jets’ practice squad after a stint with the Seattle Seahawks. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound receiver has been a fixture on several NFL practice squads since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2020, originally signing with the Los Angeles Rams. He has had short stays with the New Orleans Saints and the Cleveland Browns before being released by Seattle this past September.

Winston’s career has been limited in terms of game action, having played in just three NFL games — all with New Orleans in the 2021 season. He logged one reception for 5 yards and contributed as a returner, racking up 119 yards on 10 punt returns across 23 snaps. While Winston hasn’t been able to crack a regular-season roster, his speed and return skills give him the potential to make an impact as a depth piece for the Jets.

Zack Bailey Released

To make room for Knight and Winston, the Jets released offensive lineman Zack Bailey from the practice squad. Bailey, who was signed in early November, had previously spent time with the Falcons and had a journeyman career on practice squads with the Buccaneers, Vikings, Colts, Commanders, and Chargers. He saw limited action in a Week 13 game for the Chargers in 2022, playing four snaps on special teams. Despite his extensive practice squad experience, Bailey was let go to allow for the addition of the two skill-position players.

What These Moves Mean for the Jets

These roster changes come as the Jets continue to evaluate and fine-tune their depth chart. With a strong defense leading the way this season, the Jets are working to bolster their offensive options as they look to remain competitive. Knight’s familiarity with the team’s scheme could provide a boost to the running back room, while Winston’s potential as a returner and depth wide receiver adds some versatility to the mix.

The practice squad additions are a reflection of the Jets’ ongoing efforts to find the right pieces to contribute as the team makes its push in the second half of the season. Whether Knight or Winston will have the opportunity to make an impact on game days remains to be seen, but for now, they’ll continue to develop and practice with the team in hopes of getting called up when needed.