NY Jets make smart decision acquiring Steve McLendon

The NY Jets made a smart decision when they acquired defensive tackle Steve McLendon via free agency. He’s everything they need and much more.

As reported by Rich Cimini and Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, McLendon was able to ink a deal with the Jets for  three-years/$12M. McLendon brings six years experience to the Jets’ defensive line and will immediately replace defensive tackle Damon Harrison who bolted via free agency to the New York Giants.

Related Story: Matt Forte excited for 2016 debut with Jets

In his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, McLendon totaled 58 tackles, 5.0 sacks and two forced fumbles. As a humble kind of player that loves to step in and execute when his number is called, the Jets once again made a very smart move in free agency.

Without a whole lot of cap space, general manager Mike Maccagnan continues to make strategic moves to put the Jets in a position to contend for next season and beyond. It’s not easy but so far just like last offseason, he’s making all the right moves for the team despite how tight financially the Jets are this time around.

More from The Jet Press

• NY Jets should target TE Hunter Henry in free agency
• NY Jets: Why the team should target cornerback Shaquill Griffin
• NY Jets reportedly non-tendering linebacker Harvey Langi
• NY Jets: Why the team should not cut Jamison Crowder
• NY Jets should try to sign Kenny Golladay in free agency

McLendon will immediately be a starter on the Jets’ defensive line that continues to be one of the core strengths of the team.

He’s pretty good against the run and should make an easy transition to the Jets’ defense that specializes in stuffing the run and making key defensive stops on third down attempts.

Considering the Jets use mostly a 3-4 defensive scheme and sometimes launch a 4-3 to throw opponents off, McLendon should be able to fit in nicely and take care of business.

More jets: 2016 NFL Draft Profile: DE Joey Bosa

Overall, McLendon was a decent part of the Steelers’ defense as he was always called in to relieve their starters and made an impact when he was on the gridiron. The Steelers had one of the best run-stopping defenses last year as the Jets knew he has what it takes to put up some nice stats defensively in that area. As teams around the AFC East continue to bolster their rosters through free agency, the Jets continue to do their part as well. Looks like the division will be very competitive once again come next season.