The New York Jets are in a bit of a pickle with their offensive line. Last season, their line was a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging year. But with free agency shaking things up, the Jets are now facing some significant gaps to fill.
First off, starting guard John Simpson has packed his bags for the Baltimore Ravens, signing a three-year deal. Not long after, Alijah Vera-Tucker, a former first-round pick, made headlines by joining the New England Patriots on a three-year, $45 million contract. These departures have left a noticeable void on the left side of the line, a situation the Jets need to address quickly, either through free agency or the upcoming 2026 NFL draft.
Despite the first wave of free agency wrapping up, the Jets still have some intriguing options on the market to bolster their line. Let's dive into some potential candidates who could step in and make an immediate impact.
Elgton Jenkins
Elgton Jenkins is fresh off a release from the Green Bay Packers and ready to talk to new teams. A former second-round pick, Jenkins is eager to return to his natural position after a puzzling shift to center last year.
This two-time Pro Bowler, now 30, brings a veteran presence that could elevate the Jets' line beyond last season's performance. Jenkins should be a top priority for New York as they look to replace Vera-Tucker and Simpson.
Greg Van Roten
Bringing in a seasoned veteran like Greg Van Roten could be a smart move for the Jets. While not quite in the same league as past legends like Alan Faneca, Van Roten is a former Jet with a steady hand in pass protection, ranking as the 22nd-best guard according to PFF. At 36, he’s still coming off a strong season and could be a reliable starter right away.
Chris Paul
Chris Paul didn’t have the best numbers with the Washington Commanders last season, ranking 73rd out of 81 guards. However, his pass-blocking skills are top-notch, rated as the fifth-best in the league by PFF.
Pairing him with Olu Fashanu could create a formidable pass-blocking duo. Plus, Paul is a budget-friendly option, allowing the Jets to allocate resources elsewhere.
The Jets also need to think about depth. A combination of Paul and Van Roten could potentially address their interior line concerns effectively.
Honorable Mention: Wyatt Teller
If the Jets are aiming for a major upgrade, Wyatt Teller is a name to watch. A three-time Pro Bowler and former second-team All-Pro, Teller could help transform New York’s line into a top-five unit.
However, they’ll face stiff competition for his signature from teams like Houston and the New York Giants. If the Jets want Teller, they’ll need to be ready to invest significantly.
As the Jets navigate these options, it’s clear they have some promising paths to explore in strengthening their offensive line. With strategic moves, they can turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth and improvement.