Offseason Preview: New York Jets
The New York Jets find themselves on the precipice of a new era in their team’s history. Almost two years into the Joe Douglas era and about a month into the Robert Saleh chapter, the Jets could go in nearly any direction with this offseason. The Jets are one of the most flexible teams in terms of the salary cap, so they will have the opportunity to make some significant moves this year.
Will Sam Darnold Return?
Now that they have their head coach in the fold, the biggest question for the Jets is their quarterback situation. Sam Darnold has one year remaining on his current deal as well as an option for an additional year as part of his rookie contract. Darnold was selected with the #3 overall draft selection under the Jets’ previous regime and we have seen mixed results over his three years in green. Darnold has made some impressive plays with both his arm and his legs but has also struggled to stay healthy or find a level of consistency that the team could depend on.
If Darnold returns, there is still no guarantee that he will be with the team beyond 2021. With free agency fast approaching, the Jets’ decision could tip their hand as to their plans for the NFL Draft. With the #2 overall selection in hand, a decision to retain Darnold could indicate that the Jets will pass on the quarterback prospects available and try to add to the young supporting cast they have assembled. If Darnold is moved, he would likely be making room for a new face of the franchise to be selected in April.
Free Agents To Be
The Jets have a few notable names at the top of their list of impending free agents followed by a list of valuable depth players. Let’s look at some of the most interesting free agents.
- FS Marcus Maye – became the focal point of the Jets’ secondary after the Jamal Adams trade. He is a decent starting safety who makes some impressive plays on the ball on occasion.
- CB Brian Poole – had a decent season but struggled when asked to play above his ability. He could be retained to fit Saleh’s defensive scheme.
- WR Breshad Perriman – is always a threat when on the field, but unfortunately that hasn’t been as many games as his employers would like. He could serve as a low-cost vertical threat with reduced playing time.
- SS Bradly McDougald – filled in at SS after the Jamal Adams trade and held his own. He could serve as a replacement level starter. His ideal role is playing the popular “big nickel” position.
- RB Frank Gore – is a timeless legend. He could end up anywhere, but it’s hard to believe he will retire until we hear it directly from him.
- WR Jamison Crowder – could be released to save over $10 million this year.
Free Agent Options
The Jets have a ton of cap room to work with and are expected to bid for some of the biggest names on the market. If Jamison Crowder is released, they could have over $85 million to work with for this season. Fittingly, the Jets have needs all over their team. Let’s take a look at some of the most dire positions: quarterback, wide receiver, and cornerback.
Quarterback
If Sam Darnold does not return, the Jest will likely bring in a veteran backup quarterback to provide some guidance to a young rookie. Offensive coordinator Mike LeFleur will likely lean on a veteran QB to help install his offense.
- C.J. Beathard – is an obvious option, coming from San Francisco like LeFleur. He has starting experience, but will not threaten a first round rookie.
- Nick Mullens – see reasoning for C.J. Beathard. The Jets will likely inquire about whichever of these two leave San Francisco.
- Mitchell Trubisky – will be one of the higher paid options at quarterback without a guarantee to start. LeFleur could lean on his brother’s NFC North experience for some intel on Trubisky.
Wide Receiver
The Jets have promising talent in Denzel Mims without much to get excited about behind him. They will likely bring in multiple receivers to compete for starting time.
- Allen Robinson – is likely the most highly coveted free agent and is again a familiar face to the LeFleur family. Robinson has never had a dependable quarterback in his career and still been one of the most productive receivers in the league.
- Corey Davis – another high-profile player with a high draft pedigree. He is an impressive combination of size and speed coming off his most productive season. He likely need to be a #2 to succeed at a high level.
- Kendrick Bourne – was a valuable depth piece in San Francisco and his familiarity with the coaching staff could give him the inside track to joining the Jets.
- Will Fuller – is the most dangerous deep threat on the free agent market. He will be suspended for the first game of the season, but it would be hard not to consider him for this offense.
Cornerback
The Jets cornerback position struggled mightily all season long. The lone bright spot was the emergence of rookie Bryce Hall near the end of the season, but they will need significant help to pull this position together.
- Richard Sherman – is another familiar face from San Francisco and could serve as a defensive coach on the field in Saleh’s defense.
- Kevin King – struggled in the Packers’ man-heavy system and excelled on the snaps he played in zone. He is a young talent would be a valuable scheme fit in Saleh’s zone-based defense.
- Chidobe Awuzie - is another talented young corner who is best served in a zone defense. Dallas struggled as a team on defense last season primarily due to coaching. Awuzie could shine when put in a position to succeed.
