As training camp continues, the excitement within the New York Jets organization is through the roof. Their return to Hard Knocks has the fanbase riled up to see Aaron Rodgers’ first snaps as a New York Jet. However, before that can happen, one problem requires a quick situation; the offensive line. The return of first-round picks Alijah Vera-Tucker & Mekhi Becton has been welcomed with open arms, but inconsistency has plagued them throughout training camp. There is still time to correct this before week one against the Bills. But to make the run many expect, Joe Douglas will need some help. Fortunately for him, Aaron Rodgers’ contract restructure has left the team with nearly $20,000,000 in cap space. There will be free agents available to help. With that in mind, here are three players that can help the Jets offensive line tremendously.
Three Free Agents That Could Help the New York Jets Offensive Line
Most of these options won’t be immediately moving into the starting five. Merely quality veteran players that can provide depth and earn an opportunity with the team. Their expected starting line will feature (going from left tackle and ending with right tackle); Duane Brown, Laken Tomlinson, Connor McGovern, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and Billy Turner. Turner will likely start over Becton and Mitchell due to his experience with Rodgers and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.
Dalton Risner
Of the options available, I believe that Dalton Risner offers the most upside. Risner spent five seasons in Denver after being selected with the 41st overall pick in 2019. He spent that time starting at left guard next to Garrett Bolles. Risner played for Hackett last year in Denver while Nathaniel was the head coach. His familiarity with the offense and durability shall be a great asset to the offensive line. This also allows the team to shift Vera-Tucker over from guard to tackle if need be, something Alijah has been willing to do to help the team.
Taylor Lewan
Taylor Lewan has nearly a decade of experience as the starting left tackle for the Titans. The 11th overall pick in the 2014 draft made the Pro Bowl three consecutive seasons between 2016 through 2018. Though age and lingering knee issues have plagued the latter half of his career, his experience is still valuable in the right situation. Lewan has also spent the past four seasons in Tennessee playing for new offensive line coach Keith Carter. Lewan’s experience would be an excellent learning tool for the rest of the linemen to understand Carter’s philosophy. Ideally, the career-long left tackle should consider a move away to the right tackle position if he wants to continue starting.
Jason Peters
The return of an Eagles legend to the tri-state area? Jason Peters was a household name in Philadelphia, earning six All-Pro honors and the Eagles’ first Super Bowl championship in franchise history. While those days are long gone, Peters was still able to find playing time last year in Dallas. He played in 10 games, even getting reps at right tackle. While he wouldn’t start, Peters’ value to the Jets will come through his experience. Few professionals can be better mentors to a young offensive line than a veteran like Peters. His nearly 20 years of playing experience would be like having an assistant offensive line coach on the 53-man roster.
Honorable Mention: Trade for Zack Martin?
The talk of training camp for the Dallas Cowboys has been the noticeable absence of All-Pro Guard Zack Martin. Largely recognized as the best right guard in the league, Zack Martin has been looking for a raise after settling for a very team-friendly extension to his rookie contract five years ago. Martin has two years remaining on his current contract and both sides are expected to resolve the issue of compensation, it makes sense for Joe Douglas to inquire about the talented lineman. The Jets’ cap space allows them to make a very competitive offer compared to Dallas.
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