Since the beginning of the offseason the New York Jets have made strides to improve their football team. This started in March, when free agency began, the team brought in high-profile players such as Trumaine Johnson, Avery Williamson and Isaiah Crowell. Next, the team turned to the draft to improve and added a potential franchise cornerstone in Sam Darnold and defensive line pieces in Nathan Shepherd and Foley Fotukasi.
All of these moves were critical in rebuilding the team, but more still needs to be done. With many high-profile players on the market here is a list of five that could help the Jets in 2018:
Connor Barwin OLB (31)
One of the most surprising names still available, Barwin is a proven sack machine. In the past three seasons Barwin has 17 sacks. Barwin would immediately step into a starting role with the Jets as an edge rusher and would help solve the age long issue of getting to the quarterback. This potential signing would fill a major need for the team and would also help the young players on the roster, as Barwin would be able to mentor them.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB (32)
Rodgers-Cromartie is coming off of a down year for the New York Giants, leading to his sudden release this offseason. This should not scare the Jets, as he still has the ability to shut down wideouts and control the slot. Rodgers-Cromartie would add a needed punch to a secondary desperate to replace Buster Skrine in the slot.
Alex Boone OG (31)
Being on the wrong side of 30 is the only reason Alex Boone is still available this late in the game. One of the top guards in the league, Boone can immediately come in and help shore up an offensive line that struggled at times last year. Boone would presumably take over the right guard position from Brian Winters.
Kenny Vaccaro S (27)
One of the most interesting names still left on the market. It is safe to assume the only reason a player who is a budding star at his position and about to hit is prime is only available because of his anthem protests. Vaccaro would not fill a need for the Jets, as they have Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye over the middle, but would provide a potential lift in the slot. It never hurts to add a player with as much talent as Vaccaro this late in the game.
Coby Fleener TE (29)
Recently released by the Saints, Fleener is exactly what the Jets need right now. Fleener thrived in Indianapolis, but recently struggled in New Orleans. Still young enough to play in the league, Fleener would represent a low risk high reward signing for the Jets. Tight end is currently unknown for the team, and Fleener may be able to solve that issue.
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