New York Jets: Three internal free agents the team can do without

Jermaine  Kearse

On its face this selection could be a surprise to some. We talk all the time about how the Jets need to place as many weapons as possible around Sam Darnold. Why, then, would I say to say goodbye to one of his weapons?

I’m glad you asked.

When Kearse was acquired prior to the 2017 season, the Jets were in a tough spot. They were trying to get back as much as they could for Sheldon Richardson. The Jets were also working without Quincy Enunwa who was lost for the year, so when the Seahawks offered Jermaine Kearse, the Jets had to jump.

And Kearse paid dividends with Josh McCown at quarterback. He led the team with 65 receptions and was second in receiving yards with 810. Not only was Kearse productive, he was reliable. He caught 63.7% of his targets, more than earning a return trip to the team in 2018.

In 2018 things turned for the worst for Kearse. With Darnold under center, Kearse was considerably less reliable. He was targeted 76 times and caught 37 passes, a catch percentage of just 48.7%. He was not what he was previously.

Time to move on to players that are going to be more productive around Sam Darnold.