7 remaining free agents with prior NY Jets connections

4. NY Jets target: Ronald Blair, DE

A longtime Robert Saleh favorite, the Jets signed former 49ers defensive end Ronald Blair last offseason with the hope that he would provide additional depth to their defensive line room. And for the most part, he did just that.

Blair split time between the practice squad and active roster, appearing in eight games and recording one sack and four QB hits. It was a quiet season for Blair who made his return after missing the entire 2020 season due to injury.

The Jets already have a loaded defensive end room, but there's always room for a Saleh favorite like Blair. His high motor and infectious locker room attitude would make him an appealing addition, even if he might not make the 53-man roster.

Never underestimate Saleh's love for Blair. It wouldn't be a surprise to see these two sides reunite at some point.

3. NY Jets target: K.J. Wright, LB

I pushed hard for the Jets to sign longtime Seattle Seahawks linebacker K.J. Wright last offseason. The 11-year veteran was coming off a highly-productive year in which he finished as Pro Football Focus' seventh-ranked linebacker.

He eventually signed on with the Las Vegas Raiders where he put together another productive season, earning a 65.1 PFF grade that ranked 23rd at his position. Wright appeared in all 17 games, and even at age 32, he proved he still has plenty left in the tank.

Given how thin the Jets are at linebacker, it's a surprise that we haven't heard anything about them being interested in Wright, especially given his experience with Saleh in Seattle.

Wright is a highly-respected veteran leader who fits the Jets' defense and can still play at a pretty high level. He should be a top target for the franchise.