5 moves the NY Jets should make after signing Mike Williams
By Justin Fried
4. The NY Jets should re-sign Justin Hardee (and others)
The Jets have retained a number of key players this offseason, including specialists Greg Zuerlein and Thomas Morstead, defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, and starting safety Chuck Clark. There are still a few notable internal free agents that could be brought back, however.
Fellow special-teams standout Justin Hardee remains a free agent, and the veteran's cryptic posts on social media have led some to believe there could be a gap between the two sides in contract negotiations.
Hardee is one of the most important parts of the Jets' special-teams core and should be re-signed along with Zuerlein and Morstead.
The Jets could also explore bringing back players like Ashtyn Davis and Connor McGovern, although the former is reportedly seeking a starting opportunity. Both Davis and McGovern would provide important depth as the Jets approach next month's draft.
3. The NY Jets should sign David Bakhtiari
Speaking of depth, the Jets could use a little extra insurance behind their new starting offensive line. That's especially true for the offensive tackle positions. One player who still makes sense as a target is David Bakhtiari.
Bakhtiari is reportedly determined to play in 2024 following a host of injury-riddled seasons. If he's healthy and willing to take a backup role, the Jets should be very interested.
Tyron Smith's injury history is well documented, and it would make sense for the Jets to solidify their depth behind him. Bakhtiari has his own injury concerns, but his ties to Aaron Rodgers make him a logical target. The Jets can absolutely live with him as an insurance policy.
This might be an option the Jets explore after the 2024 NFL Draft if the team still isn't satisfied with their offensive tackle situation. Nonetheless, it's something to keep in mind moving forward.