The best offensive line strategy for the Jets for the rest of the offseason is to land a free-agent swing tackle and continue to develop Max Mitchell and Carter Warren. Joe Douglas has done well for himself this offseason. The Jets’ offensive line now has five viable starters, and they have weapons that fit how Rodgers wants to play the game.
The offensive line does still have injury concerns. Morgan Moses had surgery this offseason. Tyron Smith is coming off a season when he played 13 games, but in two of the previous three, he had single-digit games played. Finally, Alijah Vera-Tucker tore his Achilles last season.
Offensive tackle is the most important position on the field, outside quarterback. So, the Jets will need depth there. The debate is whether or not they should do so in the draft.
Offensive Line Strategy for Jets Moving Forward
Just Win, Baby
The Jets are in win-now mode, but they also have to prepare for the future. The best option right now is to find a veteran swing tackle and see how Max Mitchell and Carter Warren develop.
Neither Mitchell nor Warren were good last season. Mitchell was injured as a rookie, and 2023 was his first significant action. Warren was a rookie, and growing pains should be expected.
Using the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft as your primary offensive line strategy has a two-fold problem. The first is that you don’t know what you’re getting in a draft pick. While you may think you do, based on what the scouting report says, there’s no way of knowing for sure. So, you’re going in a little blind hoping a rookie can take over in a pinch.
The other issue is that drafting an offensive lineman is a sign that you’re giving up on two young players. Max Mitchell has only played in 20 games, and Carter Warren has only played in eight. There’s a big difference between signing a veteran because the young players may not be ready to step in yet and drafting a long-term solution. The latter sends a terrible message of impatience, even in a win-now season.
Key Developments
There’s an old cliche that the NFL stands for “not for long.” However, the Jets need to allow some development for young players, because it can’t be all veterans, all the time to be successful. The plan shouldn’t be forget about the future, because all that matter is 2024.D
There are plenty of wide receivers who could fall to No. 10. There’s also the potential of Brock Bowers being available. It’s more likely that playing with Aaron Rodgers will elevate the play of a young pass-catcher than a rookie offensive lineman will be able to step in in a pinch.
There’s a delicate balance for finishing off the 2024 offseason for the Jets. Their best option, overall, might be to trade down. However, it takes two to tango. In the end, weighing everything, taking a pass-catcher is the best option at No. 10 for the Jets. The Jets finally have an opportunity to get things right. Let’s see if they will this time.
Main Photo: Tom Horak-USA TODAY Sports
