I started a series for every New York Jets offseason called Roadmap to a Ring. This series is essentially a blueprint of what I would do if I was in Joe Douglas’s shoes. Most moves are realistic but keep in mind, there is A LOT of offseason to go. So part one of this series is dedicated to what players should return to the New York Jets next season.
Estimated Cap: $52,617,397 per Sportrac
Estimated Cap After Resigning Players: $20,117,397
Kelvin Beachum T
Beachum is a reliable veteran offensive lineman. Last season according to PFF they gave him a grade of 67.1. He only allowed 4 sacks last year, was penalized and he only missed 3 games. If they can sign Beachum to a one year deal with a low cap hit then this move would be a good one just to keep stability in Sam’s protection for year 3. Estimated Salary: 6 million
Alex Lewis G
Alex Lewis was a Joe Douglas trade for late-round compensation. Lewis played 15/16 games and had 12 starts. He was flagged 6 times and allowed 2 sacks. Lewis was reliable and was a very efficient blocker. A short term deal wouldn’t be a good move here with Lewis. Lewis is reliable, likely cheap and could be another good piece to bring back that adds versatility on the line. Lewis is a guy who Douglas took a flier on and he’s earned another deal. Estimated Salary: 3 million
Neville Hewitt LB & James Burgess LB
This comes down to three guys and the best two get to stay. Copeland produced last season but not at the level Hewitt and Burgess did. Burgess and Hewitt were very exceptional players and can be good depth guys or compete for a starting spot if Avery Williamson is released. Both are great to keep on the roster and provide versatility to handle Copeland being let go. Estimated Salary: 3 million each
Jordan Jenkins OLB
Jenkins has come along very nicely for the Jets. In the past two seasons, he’s improved his pass-rushing and developed into a legitimate complimentary pass rusher. If the Jets neglect to add another pass rusher in free agency or the draft, then keeping Jenkins likely makes him the best pass rusher on the team heading into next season. He had 8 sacks, 2 FFs, 9 TFLs, and 32 total tackles. He’s been a constant producer and deserves a solid contract to return for next season. Estimated Salary: 12 million (right in between what Preston Smith of the Redskins who had similar production earns)
Brian Poole CB
Poole was brought in to be a compliment to Trumaine Johnson and Darryl Roberts and ended up being far and away from their best corner this year. He would be an excellent piece to bring back and shouldn’t command a big deal. Despite missing time, Poole finished with 59 tackles, 4 TFLs, 1 INT & 1 FF. Poole was a great asset and should return. Estimated Salary: 5.5 million
Goodbye to Robby Anderson
Although Robby has been a great player for the Jets for the past few seasons, he’s not a number one receiver. The Jets can’t be handing out WR 1 money to a guy who albeit talented, isn’t the answer as a WR 1. So goodbye Sun God, you’ll be missed.