Grading every move the NY Jets made in the first wave of free agency

NY Jets free agency signings

C.J. Uzomah, TE, NY Jets: 3 years, $24 million ($15 million guaranteed)

Heading into free agency, and truthfully, for the last several seasons, the Jets have had one of the least talented and nondescript tight end rooms in all of football. And it's something that desperately needed to be addressed.

On paper, this has the feel of an overpay out of desperation. The tight end market thinned out quickly in free agency when standout players at the position like David Njoku and Mike Gesicki received the franchise tag.

The Jets had to pivot and sign the most accomplished veteran they could sway to join their franchise. This was arguably the Jets' most aggressive play in free agency, and they had to do it. 

From a character standpoint, C.J. Uzomah checks off all the boxes. He is beloved by his teammates, coaches, fans, and the community.

The Cincinnati Bengals and their fan base were unhappy to see Uzomah leave for New York, but the Jets lured him away from Cincy with $8 million per season. The opportunity to be in the world's media capital was certainly enticing for Uzomah, who has the talent of excelling in that field in his future. 

The Jets hope that they got the right player to help rebuild their losing culture on the field and off. The 29-year old should also give Zach Wilson a reliable safety blanket in the passing game. The Jets are paying Uzomah for the added value he can bring as a leader.

Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh needed an Uzomah type in their locker room, and the franchise paid for it with a pretty penny. Hopefully, the return on the Jets' investment in Uzomah is a beautiful one.

Grade: B