9-time Pro Bowl OT Jason Peters is open to signing with NY Jets
By Justin Fried
The NY Jets could be in the market for some offensive tackle help as we approach the start of the 2023 season, and one intriguing name on the market is nine-time Pro Bowler Jason Peters.
Peters recently declared his desire to play a 19th season in the NFL this year. At 41 years old, Peters would be the oldest active player in the league, but someone with his experience and track record could still provide value.
Peters joined the Good Morning Football crew on Tuesday morning to discuss potential landing spots ahead of Week 1. NFL Network's Kyle Brandt specifically asked Peters about his interest in signing with the Jets.
While Peters didn't necessarily tip his hand, he did indicate that he was very open to signing with Gang Green, and would even be excited about the opportunity to mentor some of the younger offensive linemen on the roster such as Mekhi Becton.
"They give me the call, I’m gonna show up and show out. That’s what I do. I’m a straight professional when it comes to that. Helping the young guys — if they want me to sit, you know I’ll sit."
- Jason Peters
Should the NY Jets sign Jason Peters?
It's no secret that the Jets have been searching for offensive tackle help this summer. Duane Brown has been out recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, the likes of Max Mitchell and Billy Turner have struggled with the starting unit, and Mekhi Becton has yet to work with the first-team offense.
The expectation is that Brown will return from the PUP list this week, and there's every chance that Becton could push for a starting job following his impressive performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the Jets lack any real "sure things" at offensive tackle.
Brown, like Peters, is an aging veteran entering his 16th season in the NFL. Becton has played just one game over the last two years. Neither Mitchell nor Turner looks like a viable starting option. Fourth-round rookie Carter Warren has missed time due to injury as well.
It might make sense for the Jets to explore making a veteran addition before the start of the season. That said, Peters might not be much of an upgrade.
The future Hall of Famer played in 10 games for the Dallas Cowboys last season, making one start, and while he's still an above-average run-blocker, his age has caught up to him in pass protection.
Peters' 60.5 Pro Football Focus pass-block grade ranked 68th among all offensive tackles to register at least 230 snaps last season. His veteran experience is invaluable, but he probably wouldn't be a significantly better option than Mitchell or Turner at this stage.
It could make sense to consider bringing Peters in as a veteran mentor, but that would require the Jets to part ways with one of their tackles. It's hard to see the Jets cutting any of their top five tackles right now.
Jason Peters is undoubtedly an NFL legend, but the Jets would likely be better off sticking with the guys currently on their roster.