3 Free Agents the Jets Must Target to Replace Laken Tomlinson
The New York Jets busy offseason is officially underway. Gang Green will be making a plethora of moves ahead of the 2024 campaign as they look to retool the roster.
The roster purge began on Feb. 26, as the Jets released guard Laken Tomlinson, clearing $8.1 million in cap space. New York brought Tomlinson into town in March 2022 but he failed to live up to his deal. The Duke product agreed to a three-year, $40 million contract.
The #Jets are releasing guard Laken Tomlinson, per source.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 27, 2024
Move saves around $8.1M on the cap.
Incredibly durable player has started 114 straight games.
He struggled immensely during his tenure in the Big Apple. Last season, Tomlinson was tied for third in sacks allowed (7) while also leading all guards in pressures allowed (50).
It was best that New York moved off of Tomlinson because of the abundance of quality interior offensive linemen who are slated to hit the open market. Below we'll discuss three players the Jets can sign to replace Tomlinson.
1. Kevin Zeitler, G
Guard Kevin Zeitler, 33, has been with the Baltimore Ravens since 2021. He's been a model of consistency over the past 12 years in the NFL. Zeitler gets to the second level with ease due to his capability to get off the line in a flash.
The Wisconsin product stands pat in the passing game and rarely gets fazed. Another positive for Zeitler is his ability to stay healthy. He's played in 15-plus games in 10 seasons in his career.
This past year, Zeitler recorded a 69.3 PFF grade and only allowed two sacks. A veteran guard with experience in the playoffs would be a good get for the Jets.