Future Hall of Famer, dream Jets free agency LT target becomes available

The most respected analytical minds and WFAN callers alike can agree the NY Jets need to spend most of their available resources this offseason on fixing one of the worst offensive lines in the league. Free agency seems like the avenue that makes the most sense for New York to focus on.

The issue, however, is the fact this free agency class is very thin at the tackle spot. Considering that Mekhi Becton is going to garner serious interest despite injuries and poor play galore speaks to how bereft of talent the open market is at this position.

One of the few tackles who could legitimately move the needle if they were to come to New York is Tyron Smith, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys. Even though he has a Hall of Fame career locked up, Smith could be worth pursuing if he wants one more shot at a ring.

Ian Rapoport confirmed the Cowboys will let Smith hit free agency and called a return to Dallas "unlikely." In a year where veteran tackles are hard to come by, the Jets just had a gift from on high dropped into their laps.

NY Jets could land Tyron Smith after Cowboys departure rumors

Smith last played more than 13 games in a season eight years ago, suiting up in four or fewer contests twice in the past four campaigns. To call him an injury risk is being generous, and he likely won't become an iron man for the Jets now that he is 33 years old.

The Jets still need to consider bringing Smith in, as the nine-time Pro Bowl player was voted to an All-Pro team for the fifth time in his career in 2023. When healthy, Smith is still one of the best pass protectors in the game.

If the Jets feel comfortable with drafting a pure right tackle like Taliese Fuaga over left tackles like Olu Fashanu and Joe Alt, signing Smith could help them complete their offensive line. Imagine a group led by Smith and another veteran signing at left guard. Joe Tippman slots in at center, Alijah Vera-Tucker goes to right guard, and Fuaga starts at right tackle.

The Jets might need to make sure they have a backup left tackle they feel comfortable with (perhaps Carter Warren shines in this role) before they add Smith. This is a roll of the dice, but such gambles are needed if they want to overcome contenders like the Chiefs and Ravens in the AFC.