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The New York Jets had set their sights on two goals in their upcoming NFL free agency. They aim to enhance their offense, which ranked 25th, and maintain their defensive excellence from last season.
The priority was to sort out the quarterback situation before being careful in filling their offensive gaps. Aaron Rodgers appears to be heading to New York, but compensation with the Green Bay Packers is yet to be finalized for the trade.
They require a center and also have depth issues with their offensive line and wide receiver positions. Meanwhile, they need to improve their defensive line, safety, and linebacker positions, which ranked fourth last year. Though New York were among the top free agent spenders in 2022 and 2019, this year, they will be looking for value and spots that can help them win in the current scenario.
New York Jets signings
The Jets made several deals during free agency, including signing Wes Schweitzer for two years for $5 million with $3.2 million guaranteed. He is versatile enough to start at center or guard and can fill the void left by Connor McGovern, a free agent. However, his durability is a concern.
The Jets have also agreed to terms with Allen Lazard (previously with the Green Bay Packers) for a four-year contract worth $44 million with $22 million guaranteed. Lazard is a talented receiver who will be a great addition to the Jets' offense, but there is a risk since he has not reached 800 yards in a season. He is a fantastic blocker and has reliable third-down catches.
New York also signed Trystan Colon for a year, a non-tendered free agent who primarily plays as a center. He has played 237 snaps at center and 52 snaps at right guard, appearing in 20 games, including four starts.
They have also signed Thomas Morstead, a punter who could compete with incumbent Braden Mann for the starting position. He is best known for his 12-year run with the New Orleans Saints.
Solomon Thomas signed a one-year deal worth $2.35 million, with $2 million guaranteed. Thomas is a rotational player who participated in 33% of the defensive snaps last season, and he recorded only a half-sack with four quarterback hits.
Lastly, the franchise has agreed to terms with Greg Zuerlein, a kicker, on a one-year, $2.6 million deal with $1.8 million guaranteed. This deal will provide kicking stability, and Zuerlein was solid in his first season with the Jets, making 81% of his field goals.
In summary, the Jets have made several moves during free agency, primarily aiming to enhance their offense and maintain their defense's excellence. They have signed several players who can fill the gaps and add value to the team, but there are some concerns regarding the players' durability and performance.
Notable New York Jets departures
Cult hero quarterback Mike White was probably the most disappointing loss for the fanbase. However, it was understandable due to the upgrade needed at quarterback and the reluctance to fully give up on first-round quarterback Zach Wilson.
Sheldon Rankins will be a big loss to the defensive front as well as rotational pass rusher Nathan Shepherd. Wide receivers Braxton Berrios and Jeff Smith make room for Allen Lazard, and running back James Robinson also departed to New England.
