NY Jets: 4 free agents the team could sign before Week 1

4. NY Jets target: Kamal Martin, LB

Kamal Martin was one of a number of 2020 NFL Draft picks released last month after just one year with his original organization. A fifth-round pick of the Green Bay Packers in last year's draft, Martin played in 10 games as a rookie starting six of them.

He looked well on his way to being a Week 1 starter for Green Bay before a torn meniscus caused him to miss the start of the season. Martin returned and put together a strong finish to the season finishing as one of the best rookie linebackers in football.

The former Minnesota standout finished with a 73.3 Pro Football Focus grade that was second-best among all rookie linebackers and the best at his position on the Packers. He was the only rookie linebacker to earn a PFF coverage, run-stop, and pass-rush grade north of 60.0.

Despite this, the Packers surprisingly released Martin late last month in a move that shocked the fan base. The 23-year-old had dealt with more injuries in the summer and struggled upon his return.

Injuries have derailed his career to this point, but the Jets could take a flier on a young linebacker who showed promise as a rookie. It helps that the team got an up-close-and-personal look at him during joint practices with the Packers last month.

Martin is probably best as an outside linebacker with the versatility to play either WILL or SAM. The Jets did just claim Quincy Williams off waivers from the Green Bay Packers, but they could use a true backup to Jamien Sherwood at SAM while Jarrad Davis is out.

Even if it's just a practice squad offer, the Jets should consider adding Kamal Martin.