5 veteran free agents the NY Jets could still target this summer

The NY Jets have had one of the most hectic offseasons in their history. Armed with a heap of draft capital, and plenty of cap space, the Jets are on their way to turning over their roster and putting this franchise in the right direction.

However, despite the influx of new talent, Joe Douglas may still look to the free-agent market to bolster this squad before they face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1. Let's take a look at five veteran free agents the Jets could target this summer.

5. NY Jets target: Riley Reiff, OT

The news of a visit with the Jets provoked positive reactions among Jets fans, and with good reason. The fan base saw how detrimental minimal depth at tackle was last season, with injuries plaguing the offensive line at the back end of the regular season.

Injuries weakened the line leading Zach Wilson to be sacked nine times against Buffalo on their final outing of the 2021 season, a game in which the line was led by Conor McDermott at left tackle, who tended to be a liability whenever he stepped on the field.

If the Jets were to go into next season with McDermott and Chuma Edoga as their primary backup tackles, that would be incredibly questionable and would be worrying given Mekhi Becton’s injury concerns.

Reiff would provide the Jets with reliable and consistent depth. A swing tackle who posted a PFF grade over 70 for three consecutive years between 2018 and 2020, and a very respectable 67.3 last year in Cincinnati.

By comparison, the Jets have not had an offensive lineman who has put up three consecutive seasons with a PFF grade above 70.0 since Nick Mangold. Reiff’s versatility makes for excellent injury cover and his 136 career starts would add a wealth of experience to this roster.

The Jets signed Morgan Moses last year in early July, so it would not be surprising if Joe Douglas looks to bring Reiff as a late offseason move.

Hopefully, Douglas will be working on a deal with Reiff as we speak, as his signing would add much-needed stability and insurance as the franchise look to set Zach  Wilson up for success.