Jets defense ends 20-game interception drought with Minkah Fitzpatrick pick

Minkah Fitzpatrick intercepted a second-quarter pass from Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent, snapping a 20-game streak in which the New York Jets defense failed to record a single interception. The turnover represented the first pick for New York in 637 days, ending a drought that stretched back to January 5, 2025. The last interceptions for the Jets were recorded by Ashtyn Davis in a game against the Miami Dolphins, where he secured two. Following the interception, the Jets offense returned to the field and finished the drive with a field goal, making the score 7-3 in the first half of Sunday's matchup. The defensive performance marked a notable shift for a unit that recorded zero interceptions during the previous season. Entering the game against the Bears, the Jets held a plus-3 point differential for the 2026 season. In Week 1, New York held the Tennessee Titans to 10 points, while allowing 20 points to the Green Bay Packers in Week 2. The team lost its Week 3 contest against the Detroit Lions, 31-24. Through most of the first half against Chicago, the defense limited the Bears to a single touchdown. With the Bears relying on a backup quarterback, the Jets offense, led by Geno Smith, faced an opportunity to capitalize on the turnover and extend their lead.