Jets reporter hints 1 key position could be targeted with late free agent signing

The NY Jets have mostly chosen to eschew splashy signings in free agency after the Justin Fields contract, as cornerback Brandon Stephen's three-year contract was the big non-quarterback acquisition Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey made in their first years in charge.

Fans who are dissatisfied with the fact that New York waited until the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft to improve either the wide receiver or safety rooms might be happy to hear Connor Hughes hint at the possibility that a big-name signing could be coming their way.

Hughes, while answering a mailbag question, teased that if there is a veteran free agent signing yet to happen, the safety position could be one area the Jets target. The current starters are Andre Cisco, who signed a one-year contract after leaving the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tony Adams, a Robert Saleh holdover who was benched last year.

The Jets appear ready to roll into the 2025 season with most of their roster solidified as currently constructed, but a former defensive back and defensive coordinator in Glenn is likely not going to turn down extra help in their secondary after a tough end to 2024.

Connor Hughes links Jets to free agent safety signing

Behind those two starters, the depth can be lacking. The only player who is seemingly guaranteed a roster spot is fourth-round rookie draft pick Malachi Moore, and even he will likely be used all over the defensive backfield due to his versatility.

Justin Simmons is obviously the biggest name still out there in the free agent defensive back market, but his veteran status and constant overtures to the Philadelphia Eagles make it seem like he is unwilling to join a team that is likely not going to make the playoffs.

Former Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon, who started 16 games in 2024 and has intercepted seven passes in the last two seasons, might be the ideal option for anyone who is crossing their fingers for a major upgrade. Blackmon would immediately be the best safety on the roster, pushing Adams out of a starting role.

Rome wasn't built in one day, and Glenn's ideal Jets roster is not going to come to fruition in one offseason. However, Blackmon needs a home for the 2025 season, and the Jets could give him a place to hone his craft under a master defensive backs teacher.

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