4 overrated free agents still available NY Jets must avoid

2. The NY Jets should pass on signing left tackle David Bakhtiari

After Simmons, maybe the second most talked about free-agent name among Jets fans has been that of former Green Bay Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari.

Bakhtiari has been linked to the Jets since the offseason began, and at the beginning of the offseason, the connection made some sense. The Jets entered free agency needing to replace two starting offensive tackles while also needing to add depth.

Furthermore, after last offseason's "friends of Aaron Rodgers" theme it seemed likely the Jets would be interested in bringing in the 32-year-old tackle. The need at tackle was dire, the connection to Rodgers was solid, and when healthy Bakhtiari has been a five-time All-Pro and excellent left tackle.

Now, though the need at tackle is not nearly as dire, left tackle is held down by another five-time All-Pro in Tyron Smith, and right tackle is held down by the ever-solid Morgan Moses. The number three tackle is also the left tackle of the future in 2024 first-round pick Olu Fashanu.

Bakhtiari, who has only played left tackle in his career, would ostensibly be the fourth tackle on the roster. That lack of versatility is a hindrance that far down the depth chart. Furthermore, Bahktiari's extensive injury history makes him a poor fit as a backup to two older tackles with injury concerns of their own.

The Jets have two other young tackles in 2022 fourth-round pick Max Mitchell and 2023 fourth-round pick Carter Warren. Both underwhelmed last season, but Mitchell has guard-tackle versatility, and Warren can play both tackle spots.

This far down the depth chart, it makes more sense to invest in young players who may develop into something over an aging, injury-prone veteran who is unlikely to see the field.

At the end of the day, roster management comes down to balancing short-term needs with long-term development which makes the combo of Mitchell and Warren preferable to Bakhtiari.