New York Jets' Offseason: Key Positions to Address After Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams Era

The New York Jets are at a crossroads following the departure of Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams, marking the end of an era that never quite reached its potential. With a new leadership team in place, the Jets must strategically rebuild their roster to compete in the present while planning for the future. Here’s a breakdown of their top five areas of focus this offseason:

1. Quarterback

With Rodgers no longer in the picture and Zach Wilson traded to the Denver Broncos, the Jets are left without a clear successor. Tyrod Taylor remains under contract, but the team needs a reliable veteran to lead the offense. Potential options include free agents like Kirk Cousins or Justin Fields, or a trade for a developmental prospect such as Hendon Hooker or Tanner McKee. The Jets’ seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft may not secure a top prospect, but they remain committed to exploring all avenues.

2. Defensive Backs

The Jets’ secondary is in need of a major overhaul. Sauce Gardner and Michael Carter II are solid starters, but the cornerback and safety positions are riddled with uncertainties. Key players like D.J. Reed, Brandin Echols, Chuck Clark, and Jalen Mills are set to hit free agency. Head coach Aaron Glenn, known for his expertise in the secondary, will prioritize adding talent through both free agency and the draft. Michigan’s Will Johnson is a top prospect who could address this need.

3. Defensive Tackle

The interior defensive line is another area of concern. Three of the team’s top four defensive tackles are pending free agents, leaving Quinnen Williams as the lone standout. The Jets will need to address this gap to improve their 20th-ranked run defense. Michigan’s Mason Graham is an ideal target in the draft, but the team may also look to free agency for solutions.

4. Tight End

Tyler Conklin, who has been a consistent performer, is heading to free agency, leaving Jeremy Ruckert as the top tight end under contract. Ruckert has yet to live up to expectations, making this a critical position to address. The Jets could target Penn State’s Tyler Warren in the draft to bolster their tight end room.

5. Wide Receiver

With Davante Adams and Allen Lazard likely to be released, the Jets’ receiving corps will look vastly different. Garrett Wilson remains a cornerstone, but Xavier Gipson and Malachi Corley have not yet proven they can be reliable starters. The team may look to free agency or the draft for reinforcements, with Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan emerging as a top prospect.

The Jets have significant challenges ahead, but with a clear plan, they can position themselves for long-term success.