David Onyemata is a New York Jets defensive lineman who wears No. 93 and enters his eleventh NFL season. The Jets signed him in March 2026 and describe him as a run-stopping specialist for the interior of their front. See the full Jets roster hub.
Background and Path to the Jets
The Jets signed Onyemata on March 12, 2026, one of several veteran additions general manager Darren Mougey made to add experience to a young roster. The club noted he had appeared in 154 career games at the time of signing.
He works the inside alongside T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips, Jowon Briggs and rookie Darrell Jackson Jr. in what the Jets call a multiple-front defense.
The Jets acquired the 366-pound Sweat by trade and signed Onyemata in the same offseason, pairing two interior run defenders in front of a linebacker group led by edge help and Demario Davis.
Career Snapshot
| Period | Team | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2016–2025 | New Orleans / Atlanta | 154 career games entering 2026 |
| Mar 12, 2026 | New York Jets | Signed in free agency |
| 2026 | New York Jets | Eleventh NFL season; wears No. 93 |
Current Status
On injured reserve as of September 22, 2026. Onyemata hurt his groin in the Jets’ Week 2 overtime loss to Green Bay on September 20 and did not return. The club placed him on injured reserve two days later, and on September 23 head coach Aaron Glenn said Onyemata had undergone core muscle surgery and is expected back later this season. The full account is in our report on Onyemata landing on injured reserve. His weekly role is reflected on the Jets depth chart, and his designation is listed on the Jets injury hub.
Latest on David Onyemata
News, analysis and injury updates involving David Onyemata, newest first. Updates automatically as coverage publishes.

David Onyemata Lands on Injured Reserve After Core Muscle Surgery
The Jets placed David Onyemata on injured reserve on September 22. Aaron Glenn says the defensive lineman had core muscle surgery and should return…

David Onyemata Downgraded to Out With a Groin Injury in Jets’ Week 2 Loss
David Onyemata was downgraded to out with a groin injury during the Jets’ Week 2 loss to Green Bay. What the team has actually…
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is David Onyemata?
David Onyemata is a defensive lineman for the New York Jets who wears No. 93. He is in his eleventh NFL season and signed with the club in March 2026.
When did the Jets sign David Onyemata?
The Jets signed him on March 12, 2026.
How many career games has David Onyemata played?
The Jets cited 154 career appearances at the time they signed him in March 2026.
What is David Onyemata’s role on the Jets?
He is an interior run defender, working inside alongside T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs.
What number does David Onyemata wear?
He wears No. 93 for the New York Jets.