As the NFL gears up for free agency, the New York Jets are looking to bounce back from a tough 3-14 season. With some cash to spend, they're poised to make significant changes, especially on defense. But let's not overlook the offense-it might be in better shape than many think.
Quarterback remains the burning question for the Jets. Last year, they gambled on Justin Fields, and it didn't pan out.
Fields struggled, and the passing game hit rock bottom, averaging just 140.3 yards per game. While Fields faced his own challenges, the offensive strategy, under former coordinator Tanner Engstrand, didn't do him any favors.
Enter Frank Reich, the new offensive coordinator, who brings a fresh perspective and plenty of talent to work with.
Garrett Wilson, the Jets' top offensive threat, is set to return healthy. Reich seems to have big plans for him, and with good reason.
Behind Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, acquired in the Sauce Gardner trade, showed flashes of brilliance with two touchdowns and a 100-yard game in just eight appearances. His speed, paired with a quarterback who can sling it, could open up the field for both him and Wilson.
John Metchie, picked up during the season, also showed promise despite some drops. With more opportunities, he could become a reliable option.
Tight end Mason Taylor had a solid rookie year with 44 receptions before a neck injury cut his season short. Expect him to be a key contributor if he stays healthy.
The offensive line, often a sore spot in the past, is finally looking stable. Four of last year's starters are returning, with Armand Membou shining at right tackle and Olu Fashanu improving at left tackle.
Joe Tippmann adapted well at right guard, and Josh Myers is back at center after a strong showing. The Jets face a choice between keeping Alijah Vera-Tucker or John Simpson, both free agents, but for once, the line isn't a major worry.
Running back is where things get interesting. Breece Hall is a free agent, and it's unclear if he wants to return.
The Jets might use the franchise or transition tag to gauge his market value. Hall had his first 1,000-yard season, but it wasn't all smooth sailing, and his social media antics have raised eyebrows.
If Hall moves on, Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis are waiting in the wings. Allen, a fourth-round pick in 2024, showed potential with his physical running style, despite limited action due to an ankle injury.
Davis has been a reliable backup, averaging over five yards per carry and contributing on special teams. The Jets have options, even if Hall departs.
Ultimately, the Jets' fortunes hinge on finding the right quarterback. They've been linked to names like Kyler Murray and Kurt Cousins, and even Eagles backup Tanner McKee.
Other possibilities include Jacoby Brissett, Tua Tagovailoa, and Marcus Mariota. The 2026 draft might not yield an immediate starter, but could set the stage for 2027.
The Jets have been on a relentless quest for their quarterback solution, facing a mix of poor coaching and bad luck. Other teams have thrived with less talent by finding that key player to elevate everyone else. The Jets must keep searching until they find their answer.
For the 2026 Jets, it all boils down to this: "Find the Quarterback, Save the Season!" With the right leader under center, they could not only turn their season around but also secure the head coach's future.