LB CJ Mosley, former Alabama star, was released by the New York Jets after several seasons, ending his tenure with the team.

CJ Mosley, the standout linebacker from Alabama who became one of the most recognizable names in the NFL during his tenure with the New York Jets, was released after several seasons with the team. This move marks the end of a significant chapter in both Mosley’s career and the Jets’ defense. Mosley’s release has left fans, analysts, and coaches reflecting on his impact, his journey, and what his future might hold.

For Mosley, the move is a culmination of various factors, including the changing direction of the Jets’ defense, salary cap concerns, and his injury history. However, his release has also prompted a look back at his illustrious college career at Alabama and the expectations placed on him as a top-tier NFL linebacker.

This article explores the implications of Mosley’s release, his career with the New York Jets, his journey from Alabama to the NFL, and what comes next for the former Crimson Tide star.

A Glimpse into CJ Mosley’s Alabama Legacy

Before becoming a star in the NFL, CJ Mosley was one of the premier linebackers in college football. Playing for Alabama under head coach Nick Saban, Mosley quickly earned a reputation for his leadership, intelligence, and versatility on the field. His time at Alabama was marked by consistent excellence, culminating in several accolades, including being named an All-American and winning multiple national championships.

Mosley’s ability to read offenses, disrupt plays, and make critical stops was evident from his freshman year. He played a crucial role in Alabama’s championship runs during the 2011 and 2012 seasons, with his leadership on defense making him one of the cornerstones of one of the nation’s top defenses under Saban.

A two-time First-Team All-SEC selection and the 2013 Butkus Award winner, Mosley’s college career set the stage for his future success in the NFL. His intelligence and work ethic were recognized by NFL scouts, making him a highly sought-after prospect. His time at Alabama not only showcased his on-field prowess but also displayed his ability to handle high-pressure situations and lead his team to victories in the nation’s biggest games.

The Transition to the NFL: A High-Profile Free Agent Signing

After being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, CJ Mosley quickly established himself as one of the league’s top linebackers. His ability to read plays, diagnose offenses, and contribute both in the run game and as a pass defender made him a standout. Over the next few seasons, Mosley earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and was widely regarded as one of the best middle linebackers in the NFL.

In 2019, after five seasons with the Ravens, Mosley signed a lucrative five-year contract with the New York Jets, making him one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league at the time. The Jets were in the process of rebuilding, and Mosley’s addition was meant to bolster their defense and provide veteran leadership in the middle of their defense.

At the time of his signing, Mosley’s arrival in New York was seen as a turning point for a franchise that had struggled to find consistency and success in recent years. The Jets, under head coach Adam Gase and defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, hoped that Mosley would be the catalyst for transforming their defense into one that could compete at a high level in the AFC.

A Rocky Start in New York

Mosley’s time with the Jets, however, did not go as planned. In his debut game for the Jets during the 2019 season, Mosley made an immediate impact with an interception and a forced fumble. However, that game also marked the beginning of a series of frustrating injuries that would plague Mosley’s time with the Jets.

Mosley suffered a groin injury in Week 1 of the 2019 season, which kept him out for several weeks. After returning to action in Week 6, Mosley struggled with various setbacks, including a lingering hip injury that would ultimately limit his effectiveness. He played in just two more games that season, finishing with a disappointing 2.5 sacks and 3 passes defended.

In 2020, Mosley opted out of the season due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, further complicating his relationship with the team. Mosley’s absence from the field in 2020 led to mixed emotions from Jets fans, who were uncertain about the impact of his departure and how it would affect the defense moving forward.

When Mosley returned for the 2021 season, the Jets were in the middle of a rebuild under head coach Robert Saleh. While Mosley was still a respected leader in the locker room, his injuries continued to hamper his performance on the field. In the 2021 season, Mosley showed flashes of his former self, but his overall performance was inconsistent. His ability to play every down and remain a dominant force was limited by ongoing injury issues, and his impact on the defense was less pronounced than many had hoped.

Despite these setbacks, Mosley remained a leader for the Jets and continued to be a key figure in their locker room. However, as the years passed, it became clear that the Jets were moving in a new direction, one that would require them to prioritize younger talent and salary cap flexibility. These factors played a significant role in Mosley’s eventual release in 2025.

The Decision to Release CJ Mosley

In 2025, after a disappointing few years in New York, the Jets made the difficult decision to release CJ Mosley. While Mosley’s impact as a leader and his experience were valued, the franchise ultimately had to make tough choices in order to reshape their roster and free up cap space.

Mosley’s $17 million cap hit for 2025 was a significant factor in the Jets’ decision, especially as they aimed to make moves to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons. The Jets had already begun investing in younger linebackers, such as Quinnen Williams and others, to help solidify their defensive core for the future. As a result, releasing Mosley allowed the Jets to open up financial flexibility while also moving forward with a fresh perspective on their defensive personnel.

The decision was met with mixed emotions from the Jets’ fanbase. While some fans respected Mosley for his contributions and leadership, others believed that it was time for the team to move in a new direction. Mosley’s release was a reminder that in the NFL, even the most respected veterans are often forced to adapt or make way for younger players as rosters change.

Jets General Manager, Joe Douglas:
“CJ Mosley has been an incredible leader for us, and we are grateful for his commitment and work ethic. Ultimately, we had to make decisions that were in the best interest of the future of this team. We wish CJ nothing but the best moving forward, and his legacy in New York will always be remembered.”

Mosley’s Legacy with the Jets

While Mosley’s time with the Jets may not have gone as planned, it would be remiss to overlook the impact he had during his tenure with the team. Despite battling injuries and setbacks, Mosley’s leadership and work ethic were never in question. He was respected both in the locker room and in the broader NFL community for his commitment to his craft and his unwavering professionalism.

Jets linebacker coach, Greg Williams:
“CJ was more than just a player for us. He was a mentor, a leader, and someone who set the tone for our defense. The injuries were unfortunate, but what CJ brought to our organization in terms of character and leadership can’t be measured.”

Though Mosley’s production did not match his contract, his leadership in the locker room was invaluable. He remained a calming presence and a voice of experience during tough times, helping the Jets’ younger players develop. His journey with the team served as a reminder of the importance of veteran leadership in the NFL, especially during rebuilding seasons.

What’s Next for CJ Mosley?

Now that he has been released by the Jets, the question is: What’s next for CJ Mosley? At 31 years old, Mosley still has the potential to play for a few more years if his body holds up. His experience, football IQ, and leadership would make him a valuable asset to a team in need of a veteran presence at linebacker. Several NFL teams could be interested in signing Mosley, particularly those with playoff aspirations who need an experienced linebacker to add depth to their defense.

There is also the possibility that Mosley could retire and move on to other pursuits. Given his leadership qualities, Mosley may find a future in coaching or media, areas where his football knowledge and experience could make a significant impact.

CJ Mosley in a recent interview:
“I’m not done playing football yet. I’m still hungry, still motivated, and still passionate about the game. Wherever the future takes me, I know I can contribute and bring value.”

As for the New York Jets, while Mosley’s departure is a sad moment, it marks a new beginning for the team. They have an opportunity to continue building their defense without being constrained by Mosley’s hefty contract. The Jets will likely use the cap savings from Mosley’s release to invest in other positions and continue their upward trajectory.

 Reflecting on Mosley’s Time with the Jets

CJ Mosley’s time with the New York Jets may not have been as successful as anyone had hoped when he first signed with the team, but it’s important to reflect on the contributions he made during his tenure. Injuries and age caught up to Mosley, but his leadership, experience, and work ethic will always be remembered. He leaves the Jets with a lasting legacy of professionalism and commitment.

While Mosley’s release signals the end of his time in New York, it also represents the beginning of a new chapter in his football career. Whether he continues playing in the

NFL or transitions into another role within the sport, his journey is far from over. As one of Alabama’s greatest linebacker products and a respected NFL veteran, CJ Mosley’s story is still being written.