New York Jets: Free Agency Plan

As the New York Jets head into their fourth offseason under general manager Joe Douglas, there's a mix of both hope and despair for the team and their fans. The Jets, who have had the longest active playoff drought in the NFL, will be looking to break that streak by complementing their young core with the right pieces during the upcoming free-agency period.

Despite their 7-10 record last season, the Jets still missed the playoffs for the 12th year in a row, which makes the upcoming free-agency period even more critical. As the legal tampering period approaches, they will have to navigate their cap situation and make the necessary cuts to get under the 2023 NFL cap of $224.8 million.

Currently, the Jets are projected to be over their salary cap, but by only $1.4 million. It shouldn't be a big issue for them to clear up space. By cutting players and making some necessary moves, they will have the financial flexibility to utilize in the free-agent market.

As far as notable free agents go, Joe Douglas will need to address their offensive line by potentially bringing back center Connor McGovern, who started all 17 games last season. On the defensive side of the ball, key players such as safety Lamarcus Joyner and Sheldon Rankins are set to hit free agency, but they have penned Quincy Williams into a new deal.

Jets' Biggest Needs and Potential Targets

Detroit Lions v Green Bay Packers

The quarterback is the team's biggest need, as Zach Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, has not proven to be the long-term solution to QB woes. Mike White and Joe Flacco are both set to hit free agency, and neither is expected to be the answer to the team's QB problems. The Jets are reportedly in talks to trade for Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. If that doesn't pan out, the team may explore the free-agent market. Jimmy Garoppolo is currently the top QB on the market.

The team will also need to find a safety to start alongside Chuck Clark in the secondary if Joyner doesn't return. Jimmie Ward, who has played for head coach Robert Saleh during his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, could be a potential fit.

Finally, Douglas will need to find someone to start alongside Quinnen Williams on the interior of their defensive line. The team may consider re-signing Sheldon Rankins. If not, Larry Ogunjobi and Fletcher Cox are two notable DTs on the free-agent market that they could target.