How the hell am I supposed to know who this is?

In an occasional feature, we briefly highlight any of the lesser-known players that make an unexpected impact during camp, preseason or the regular season.

Today, we focus on linebacker Zaire Barnes:

What he did:

The Jets were off yesterday and today but Barnes stepped up earlier this week with a pick-six of Tim Boyle:

This isn't the first time he's made a splash at camp:

Rookie LB Zaire Barnes had a sack of Zach Wilson yesterday. Today he picks off Tim Boyle and finishes the play with a nice return. #Jets
— Andy Vasquez (@andy_vasquez) July 26, 2023

Outlook:

Barnes is one contender for the third linebacker role which is currently wide open because the Jets have opted not to re-sign Kwon Alexander.

Of course if CJ Mosley or Quincy Williams were to miss any time, then that will open up an opportunity for a potential full time role.

From the sounds of it, Jamien Sherwood is having a good camp and could be the front-runner to earn that third linebacker role. Meanwhile, Alexander is still unsigned and has been hinting at continuing to hold out hope for a reunion with the Jets.

However, if Barnes continues to make plays in camp and then carries this momentum into the preseason, the rookie also has a chance to get in the mix.