New York Jets: Offseason Wants, Needs & Preview

[Finished 2-14 Overall]

Aside from arguably the most shocking upset this season, the Jets franchise had a season they will likely never willingly talk about again. The team that was all but destined for the number 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft somehow managed to upset the Rams and the Browns. However, they otherwise had a pretty much forgettable season in all efforts on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Thankfully Christopher Johnson's “offensive guru”, Adam Gase, has been shown the door. The days of taco press conference memes and Sam Darnold's mono will be long forgotten soon, hopefully. At the very least, Jet fans remain hopeful that brighter days are ahead with HC Robert Salah and a new coaching staff led by GM Joe Douglas.

The Jets struck gold in last season’s draft with the selection of OT Mekhi Becton and the same can be said of DT Quinnen Williams. If both are surrounded by more talent, they may turn out to be even better than originally anticipated. Jamaal Adams forced his way out of New York and was replaced by Marcus Maye. The Jets should make it a priority to re-sign Maye who proved to be a solid replacement.

In years past, Sam Darnold showcased a few bright moments of potentially being a franchise signal-caller but regressed tremendously last season. One of Darnold's biggest accomplishments last season was finishing with a better passer rating than Dwayne Haskins. Though this crowning achievement won't be a career milestone, there is still hope for Darnold. The young quarterback can be coached to become a better player, and a change may be the best direction for the Jets. Under former HC Adam Gase, the lack of creativity and chemistry with injury-ridden offensive weapons was clear and obvious. It’s truly amazing that in 2020, Frank Gore was the centerpiece of an NFL offense.

The Jets are in the running to trade for a disgruntled Deshaun Watson, draft Justin Fields or Zach Wilson, or simply trade Darnold. The commitment the Jets make to their starting quarterback will ultimately determine the fate of this organization. The direction they decide to go will make or break this team for years to come. It’s tough to pinpoint which position is actually the most important to attack for the Jets this offseason. The Jets need an elite running back, a dominant number one receiver, a tight end, an edge rusher, multiple cornerbacks, and a number of offensive linemen. Given the cap space and multiple draft picks they have, a complete roster haul could be achievable.

Right now, the future of this organization may feel bleak, but there is optimism with the direction of the new coach and staff. Just 2 years ago, the Buffalo Bills were in the same position where the Jets are now. The way in which the Dolphins tanked for Tua is the same method the Jets tried to implement this past season. The Patriots continue to flounder, but Bill Belichick will likely right the ship sooner rather than later. Time is of the essence for the Jets to aggressively attack this offseason. Given the capital, they can pull the trigger on trades, draft picks, and free-agent acquisitions. Take a look at the Browns. The playoffs seemed like a far-fetched dream, but with a few moves and coaching changes, they became contenders in a short period of time.