The New York Jets' offensive line was a standout in 2025, a beacon of consistency in a season that saw its share of ups and downs. Anchored by first-round picks Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou, alongside the reliable Joe Tippmann, this unit rose to prominence despite the early loss of starting guard Alijah Vera-Tucker for the season.
As we edge closer to free agency, the Jets are contemplating a shake-up on the line. The potential departure of key players looms large, with the team signaling a readiness to part ways with some familiar faces.
When Vera-Tucker went down with a torn triceps before the 2025 season, Joe Tippmann stepped up at right guard, while John Simpson, a 2024 free agency pickup, took charge on the left. Simpson's first year with the Jets was a personal best, boasting a 72.3 pass-blocking grade and a 79.2 run-blocking grade, placing him among the top guards in the league. However, 2025 saw a dip in his performance, with grades of 62.0 and 56.7, respectively.
Both Vera-Tucker and Simpson are now set to test the waters as unrestricted free agents, forcing the Jets to reevaluate their interior line strategy. General Manager Darren Mougey, speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, indicated that the team is open to letting both players explore their options.
“We’ll evaluate and stay in contact with those guys,” Mougey stated. “We’ll monitor throughout the free agency process and just go through that process and see where it lands.”
While losing one or both guards wouldn't spell disaster, it would necessitate addressing the position through free agency or the draft, redirecting resources to a spot that might not have been a priority.
The door isn't fully closed on their return, but Mougey's comments suggest a cautious approach. There might be a chance to re-sign one of them at a reduced rate. Vera-Tucker's injury history could dampen his market value, and Simpson's recent struggles might lower his asking price.
The guard market is notoriously unpredictable, and the Jets seem content to let it play out. However, letting both players walk would be a bold move, one they appear ready to take, but it's a gamble nonetheless.