Potential New York Jets’ Free Agent: Jairus Byrd

Dec 8, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills free safety

(31) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Buffalo Bills 27-6. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

It’s just a few weeks from the start of free agent season. So, what do we do? Do we wait to see what the team does before we talk about it? Heck, no. We pretend we are the general manager, and make suggestions as to what the team SHOULD do. As fans, we know that this is our job.

I say that tongue in cheek of course, but this IS the time for speculation. So, let’s get to it.

There has been a lot of talk about the need for weapons on the offensive side of the football, with good reason. Geno Smith needs people to throw to, and we have talked about the situation at length. Whether it’s through free agency, the draft, or a combination, rest assured, John Idzik will not go into the season with the same problem.

But, what about the defense, specifically, safety?

Antonio Allen is a good player, up and coming, but he needs help. Dawan Landry had an excellent season, but he is more of a run stopper, not really known for defending against the pass. Ed Reed is great for lending his experience, but who knows if he even has a full season left in him? Josh Bush hasn’t done much to distinguish himself.

The biggest problem the Jets had on defense was the vulnerability over the top to the deep ball.

In walks Jairus Byrd.

Take a look at his career stats so far:

Defense & Fumbles

Here are some highlights, in the “Jairus Byrd Chronicles”

Byrd clearly has a nose for the football, which is what you want out of a free safety. The free safety literally is “free” to roam, and when the ball comes his way, he can go and get it. His stats, along with that tape, make that fact abundantly clear.

Jairus also has great hands, as when the ball comes near him, he is making the pick.

He has had injury problems in his career, including in his interception leading rookie year of 2009. It will be imperative that he checks out as healthy before Idzik and company were to talk about anything serious with this guy. But if he checks out, Jairus Byrd would be an excellent addition.

Pay attention, John Idzik, and take a look at this guy.