New York Jets: 7 Training Camp Battle Projections
Position: Right Tackle
Projected Favorite: Brent Qvale
The Jets right tackle spot goes unnoticed, but it’s a huge problem for the offensive line. Incumbent starter Breno Giacomini has struggled since signing with the team in 2014. The front office drafted South Carolina product Brandon Shell, but he doesn’t seem ready to take over as a starter in his rookie season.
According to Tony Pauline of Draftinsider.net, the Jets have touted offensive lineman Brent Qvale as an option at either tackle spot:
I continue to hear the NY Jets are comfortable using Brent Qvale as a starter if they make changes at left or right tackle.
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) March 3, 2016
The Jets traded for offensive tackle Ryan Clady and a seventh-round pick in exchange for a fifth-round pick, which patches the left tackle spot. On the other side, the front office could release Giacomini, save $4.3 million, per spotrac.com, and promote Qvale in the starting spot.
According to USA Today reporter Connor Hughes, Qvale took snaps with the first-team during the final minicamp practice with Giacomini on the sideline.
The Jets signed Qvale as an undrafted free agent in 2014. Giacomini holds an advantage in experience, but it’s time for a change at right tackle after poor results.
Next: Punter