3 free agent LBs (not named Bobby Okereke) Jets should sign before 2026 season

The New York Jets' linebacker room is much better than it was last season after adding Demario Davis, but the greybeard's age and Jamien Sherwood's regression in 2025 have led to some fans looking to the free agent market for some extra depth.

Due to his consistency, experience, and a connection to offensive coordinator Frank Reich, former Colts and Giants starter Bobby Okereke has been mentioned as a possible addition.

Currently, 2025 fifth-rounder Kiko Mauigoa and practice squad find Mykal Walker are the backups. Okereke would be a tremendous addition to the fold, but the Jets may need to look for more practical options if they are unable to bring him in.

These three linebackers are all seeking gainful employment, would give the Jets some much-needed breathing room if the starting duo doesn't hit their full potential, and could be more likely additions than someone like Okereke, who would be less likely to accept a backup role.

3 linebackers not named Bobby Okereke Jets must sign

3. Jerome Baker

Baker has seemingly accepted that his days as a starting linebacker in the NFL are over. The former Miami Dolphins second-round pick and Ohio State star spent the last few years bouncing around between the Seahawks, Titans, and Browns, with whom he started a handful of games last year.

If the goal of pursuing any additional linebacker additions is to bring in someone with a higher ceiling than Mauigoa or Walker, Baker stands out as ideal veteran depth.

2. Matt Milano

A healthy Milano is one of the best coverage linebackers in the league and a player capable of being a lynchpin on some very talented Buffalo Bills defenses, but healthy Milano shows up so infrequently.

Milano getting a clean bill of health is not a given, and he might want to prioritize teams with a shot at a championship, but Milano's peak eclipses even what Sherwood did under Robert Saleh.

1. Elandon Roberts

Roberts is not going to be a very good coverage linebacker at this stage of his career, and it is worth wondering if just keeping Mauigoa and riding the developmental roller coaster might be better than signing a veteran to fill the exact same role. Experience and pedigree may win out, however.

Roberts, who has started with the Patriots, Steelers, and Raiders over the last half-decade, was well into the top half of linebackers as far as PFF run defense grade is concerned, and that is clearly a top priority for this coaching staff.

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