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

Laken Tomlinson, OG, NY Jets: 3 years, $40 million

The running theme with the Jets' most prominent signings on offense this offseason is catering to Mike LaFleur's needs as a play-caller.

That's what was accomplished when the Jets doled out the big bucks to sign Pro Bowl guard Laken Tomlinson. LaFleur wanted someone who knew his system and blocking scheme inside and out. Tomlinson is not only a great student, but at 30-years old, he's become a great teacher of the system.

Tomlinson got one of the bigger deals in free agency at his position, not just because he's emerged as an excellent player, but because of his leadership traits.

Young emerging players like Alijah Vera-Tucker will benefit from Tomlinson's presence. The Jets' sizeable financial investment in Tomlinson is also an investment in the growth of the team's offensive coordinator and its young linemen.

A group that the Jets will undoubtedly continue to add to in the next two years. Perhaps Tomlinson lining up next to Mekhi Becton, presumably, on the right side in tandem could help aid the Jets' 2020 first-round pick.

Yes, the Jets overpaid for Laken Tomlinson. But they got exactly what they wanted. That isn't often the case in free agency, where teams typically settle for the best of what is left by overspending.

Grade B+