NY Jets: Ranking all 12 of the team's free-agent signings

12. Del'Shawn Phillips, LB, NY Jets

Without a doubt the mist low-key signing of the offseason, the Jets added some additional linebacker depth when they signed Del'Shawn Phillips in late March.

An undrafted free agent in the 2019 NFL Draft, Phillips spent the majority of his rookie season on the practice squad of the Buffalo Bills after failing to make the Atlanta Falcons roster out of training camp.

Phillips saw limited action in 2020 playing in just two games, exclusively on special teams. His role with the Jets, should he make the team, would likely be similar.

The 24-year-old is competing for one of the backup linebacker spots on the team and seems to be penciled in behind C.J. Mosley as the backup MIKE. However, he faces an uphill battle when it comes to making the roster.

11. Justin Hardee, CB/special teamer, NY Jets

The Justin Hardee signing has Brant Boyer written all over it. A four-year veteran and standout special teamer, Hardee won't be asked to contribute much (if at all) on defense.

Instead, the Jets handed him a three-year, $5.25 million contract to serve as their de facto leader on special teams. The New Orleans Saints wanted Hardee back, but the Jets made an aggressive push in free agency.

It's evident that Boyer had a lot of say in a number of transactions this offseason and the Hardee signing is the best example of that.

It's difficult to rank this move any higher given the limited role Hardee will play. But he's someone who should stick around for a few years and play an important role on special teams.