Joe Douglas, Jets earn solid marks for transformative 2024 offseason

NY Jets GM Joe Douglas knew he needed to knock it out of the park in this offseason following a putrid 2023 free agency period. Based on the early returns, it seems like Douglas did a fairly respectable job in addressing some of this team's biggest holes.

The Jets needed an entirely new offensive line, more pass catchers who could help get the most out of Aaron Rodgers, and a plan to replace the outgoing Bryce Huff. Douglas used the draft and free agency to check both those boxes, and he seems to have done a fairly respectable job.

While the Jets may not have pulled off the league-shattering skill position trade many fans either wanted or expected, it's hard to look at the moves the team has made this offseason and come away as anything other than impressed. The Jets, of all teams, are poised to contend.

Bleacher Report gave the Jets a B+ across the board in the offseason, giving their free agent acquisitions and drafting the same grade. The rebuilding of the offensive line was the main priority, and Douglas seems to have attacked that as aggressively as he has any other position.

Bleacher Report gives NY Jets B+ grade for 2024 offseason

The new-look line consists of Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses at the tackle spots with former Ravens guard John Simpson moving in to replace Laken Tomlinson at left guard. Wide receiver was addressed by signing Mike Williams and inserting him as the No. 2 receiver behind Garrett Wilson.

The Jets could be questioned for their handling of the Huff and John Franklin-Myers situations, but the addition of Haason Reddick via trade should help alleviate some of those concerns. After an iffy 2023 NFL Draft class, Douglas appears to have crushed it in 2024.

Penn State's Olu Fashanu profiles as someone who could be the Jets' left tackle of the future, and Western Kentucky star Malachi Corley could beat out the much-maligned Allen Lazard to earn the role of No. 3 wide receiver. Even Braelon Allen could play a role as the backup running back.

While this season will ultimately depend on how well Aaron Rodgers plays, the Jets are doing everything in their power to surround him with the pieces he needs to go on a championship run. New York has built him a wall up front and helped him land some playmakers, which could help the offense take off.