7 defensive tackles the NY Jets could sign after missing out on Larry Ogunjobi
By Justin Fried
2. NY Jets target: Darius Philon
Perhaps my favorite under-the-radar defensive tackle target for the Jets right now is Darius Philon. A former sixth-round pick of the Chargers, Philon spent last season with the Las Vegas Raiders after having not appeared in a game since 2018.
Injuries have plagued Philon for a lot of his career, but Philon proved last year that he still can be an effective player. The 28-year-old quickly became a fan favorite for his vocal on/off-field leadership and his hot motor on the gridiron.
His 58.7 PFF grade was more than respectable too, and it would have ranked 55th out of all interior linemen if he had played enough snaps to qualify.
Philon is at his best as a 3-technique interior pass rusher and his athleticism could make him an ideal fit for the Jets' defense. Provided he's recovered from a knee injury he suffered late last season, the Jets should make a call.
1. NY Jets target: Ndamukong Suh
This is the most notable name still on the market. Ndamukong Suh is one of the most feared defensive tackles of his era and possibly the most accomplished free agent still available.
A five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, Suh has 191 career starts under his belt to go along with 70.5 sacks and 212 career QB hits. You aren't going to find a more impressive resume out there.
Still, it does seem unlikely that the Jets find a way to sign him. Suh has hinted that he's looking to sign with a contender, and at 35 years old, it probably makes sense for both sides to look elsewhere.
That said, there's no denying that Suh would significantly help the Jets' interior defensive line depth, even if he's not quite the player that he used to be.