Jets Bolster Offensive Line With First Free Agent Signing

The New York Jets have finally made their first true signing adding former Ravens and Raiders offensive lineman John Simpson to a two-year $14 million dollar deal with incentives to reach $18 million dollars.

Simpson played 19 games for the Ravens at left guard in 2023 meaning he'll likely stick at guard for the Jets in 2024. At just 26 years old, Simpson will make the Jets better in the short term while also providing the Jets with a long term option if he plays well.

The move all but solidifies the Jets interior offensive line with John Simpson at left guard, Joe Tippman at center, and Alijah Vera-Tucker at right guard. The Jets offensive line struggled in 2023 allowing 64 sacks. The Jets will need to protect Aaron Rodgers if they have any hopes of competing in 2024 as seen by the team's play once Rodgers was injured.

Joe Douglas and the Jets will now need to focus their efforts on filling their tackle positions with Mekhi Becton and Duane Brown headed to free agency. There are plenty of options on the free agency market with Tyron Smith, Trent Brown, La'el Collins, and Jonah Williams as potential options still unsigned after a busy day one.

The Jets salary cap issues will hurt the team, keeping them from likely signing some of the top tier weapons and lineman they need to compete in the loaded AFC.

The New York Jets Need to Nail the Draft

Entering the off-season with Salary Cap issues in a year you need to compete is extremely daunting for the New York Jets. The lack of cap space means that the team needs to nail this draft with players that can have an immediate impact while also being long-term pieces. The team will likely use the tenth pick in the draft on an offensive tackle to be the long-term solution. The team has seven other draft picks that the team will focus toward finding weapons for Aaron Rodgers and depth pieces to provide an impact in year one.

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