Jets Early Roster Preview: Offensive Line

The Jets offensive line will prove to be key regarding the team’s offensive success in 2019.

The Jets went into 2018 having spent the fifth most on offensive lineman in the NFL. And, to be fair, it didn’t work out so well.

The starting offensive line in 2018 consisted of Kelvin Beachum, James Carpenter, Spencer Long, Brian Winters, and Brandon Shell. Injuries kept the rotation switching throughout the season, but this was the group for the most of the season. Brent Qvale, Jonatthan Harrison, and Dakota Dozier also got playing time last season.

The Jets’ offensive line ranked 25th in the league as a group, something fans saw coming at the beginning of the season. The group was full of veterans out of the primes of their career, and with a subpar running back group behind them, they weren’t put on a path to succeed.

They did finish the season as the 14th highest group in terms of pass blocking efficiency, with a solid grade of 85.5. The running game is what killed the Jets last season, averaging just 4 Y/C, which ranked 29th in the league.

The Jets made two significant changes to their offensive line over the offseason. The biggest move was trading for former Pro Bowler Kelechi Osemele. Former GM Mike Maccagnan made a deal with the Oakland Raiders to acquire Osemele and a 6th round pick in exchange for a 5th round pick.

Osemele’s 2018 was underwhelming, mostly due to injuries. When fully healthy, Osemele has proven to be a premier offensive lineman in the NFL. Adam Gase hope Osemele can stay healthy in 2019 and turn into an upgrade at offensive guard. James Carpenter’s ability was declining quickly, and the Jets made a move.

The Jets also made a move at center, cutting Spencer Long. Long was signed to a three year deal in 2018, and only made it through one year with Gang Green. Long’s 2018 was extremely injury riddled, and even when he was healthy, he struggled. There was one point in the season where Long couldn’t even snap the ball into Darnold’s hands half of the time. It was a disappointing season for Long.

Although getting rid of their 2018 starter, the Jets decided to stay quiet at the center position over the offseason. They passed on top tier free agents Matt Paradis and Mitch Morse, and now many believe the Jets have a hole at center. Jonotthan Harrison is in line to start 2019. Harrison is a solid center who can get the job done, but an upgrade would’ve been nice for Sam Darnold’s sake.

The Jets did add some young talent in the draft, spending one of their third-round picks on USC offensive tackle Chuma Edoga. While he may have promising upside, Edoga is far from a polished product, and shouldn’t be counted on as a reliable starter for his rookie season.