The long nightmare is finally over for New York Jets fans. For 637 days, the defense could not grab a single pass from an opponent. That historic dry spell ended on Sunday when Minkah Fitzpatrick picked off a throw by Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent. This moment was not just a stat update; it was a relief for a city that waited through an entire season of nothing but clean hands from the other team.
A Record That Stands Alone
The numbers behind this drought are hard to swallow. In 2025, CBS Sports reported that the Jets achieved the unique NFL distinction of completing an entire season without recording a single interception. By the end of the first three weeks in 2026, this statistic had grown to cover 20 games. The league has tracked these plays since 1933, and no one ever went an entire year without a pick. It was a strange feeling watching 20 different quarterbacks throw at the Jets without one ever falling into their hands. The slump started with Aaron Rodgers in the opener and continued even against rookie and backup quarterbacks who made mistakes. ESPN reported that the team faced 643 pass attempts during this stretch without a single takeaway.
How the Streak Finally Broke
The turning point came in the second quarter against Chicago. The Bears were driving, and Bagent threw a play-action pass over the middle intended for tight end Colston Loveland. Fitzpatrick, a five-time Pro Bowl safety, stepped in front of the ball at the Jets’ 35-yard line. CBS Sports noted that this was the first interception since the 2024 season, when Ashtyn Davis picked off Tyler Huntley back in January. The Jets turned this turnover into three points with a 36-yard field goal by Jason Sanders. It was a happy return for Fitzpatrick, who had missed the last two games due to a groin injury.
What Happened Before the Success
It almost happened earlier in the game, but luck was not on their side. A pass deflected at the line was grabbed by defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, who looked to have secured a pick. Nevertheless, cornerback Azareye’h Thomas committed a penalty that resulted in the play being nullified. That moment felt like a cruel joke for fans who had waited this long. The team started 1-0 with a win over Tennessee but lost the next two games to Green Bay and Detroit.
