New York Jets Sign Safety Marcus Gilchrist

The Jets wanted to revamp their beaten down defensive secondary. They have done just that. Take a look at this Tweet from insider Ian Rappaport:

The #Jets are finalizing a 4-year contract for former #Chargers safety Marcus Gilchrist, source said. He will sign tomorrow.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2015

The report was confirmed by Darryl Slater of NJ.com. At this point, no financials have been released on the deal. Gilchrist, as noted, is set to sign a four year contract at some point on Friday.

The Jets were in the market for a safety. They want to allow Calvin Pryor to play closer to the line, as he did in coverage. Dawan Landry is also not expected back next year, so the team was looking for someone to fill his spot.

Apparently, Gilchrist left down without the deal being signed, but work continued, and it is going to work out for the Jets to bring in the 26-year-old former San Diego Charger.

The question is whether or not Gilchrist is the right guy to put Calvin Pryor back to his natural position. I am not so sure. According to Pro Football Focus, Gilchrist ranked 83rd among safeties in pass coverage. He has started all 32 games over the last two years, but has only knocked down 10 passes and intercepted three.

Is Marcus Gilchrist the ball-hawking safety the Jets need? Time will tell.

Next: Grading the Free Agency Moves and Trades

More from The Jet Press