NY Jets 2021 Training Camp State of the Roster: Offensive Line

How will the NY Jets offensive line perform in 2021 and beyond?

It may seem odd to predict such success for a unit that has not seen success in at least half a decade, but the 2021 Jets offensive line could prove to be one of the better groups in the league.

If Becton stays healthy and continues to improve as second-year linemen tend to do, the Jets could be looking at a bonafide franchise left tackle.

As for Vera-Tucker, first-round guards have proven valuable assets time and time again. Zack Martin and Quenton Nelson were each top guards during their first seasons, and even players like Chris Lindstrom and Elgton Jenkins proved productive as rookies.

At center, if McGovern can continue his play from the latter half of last season, a reasonable ask considering last year's circumstances, the Jets could have one of the top centers in football.

Right guard would likely be a weak spot, but with so many competent players fighting for that spot, one would think that the team is bound to end up with a decent player there.

Still, even some of the top lines in the league have a weak spot. And if Van Roten's lives up to PFF's expectations, right guard will not a position to worry about.

Finally, if Moses does what he has done throughout his entire career, the Jets will not have any problems at right tackle.

And if Moses continues his dominance from last year, Gang Green could have one of the better tackle duos in the league.

I do not think it is unreasonable to have relatively high expectations for the Jets offensive line this season despite their massive failures just a year ago.

Beyond 2021, the left side of the offensive line is set for years to come with the likes of Becton and Vera-Tucker. Plus, at only 28, perhaps McGovern could end up a long-term piece if he re-signs in 2023, assuming he provides quality center play up to his contract expiration.

The NY Jets still have young depth in Clark, Edoga, and Moore, at least one of whom could develop into a reliable backup if not crack the starting lineup at some point.

Of those players, Moore is an under-the-radar guy to keep an eye on. NFL Analyst Field Yates reported that three other teams attempted to claim Moore, but Douglas had the highest priority.

Those three other teams were the Browns, Bears, and Raiders, the first of which has the best offensive line in football, while the latter two have historically had excellent offensive lines.

Of course, expectations for the UDFA should be low, but do not be surprised if he makes the 53-man roster despite the impressive depth at o-line that exists already.

Conclusion

Offensive line has been a touchy subject for NY Jets fans as of late. Many point to poor offensive line play as a major reason for Sam Darnold's failures in New York.

Just over a decade ago, though, Gang Green had an unbelievable unit led by D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Alan Faneca, Nick Mangold, Brandon Moore, and Damien Woody.

Since those players' departures, however, the Jets have sent out inept offensive line after inept offensive line, only to be dominated in the trenches week-in and week-out.

With the new additions to the line this past offseason, the Jets could be looking at a much-improved line that, under the right circumstances, could end up being well above-average.

A productive offensive line is obviously key for offensive success, but its main beneficiary would likely be rookie quarterback Zach Wilson, who would be able to go through his progressions and make an accurate throw without pass rushers in his face.

Additionally, an efficient running game, which would be impossible without a talented offensive line, would aid Wilson in his development as he will not always be forced to throw the ball.

No matter how you slice it, the offensive line is crucial for an offense's success. There is nowhere to go but up for this unit, and with the talent and youth of this group, the sky is the limit.