Julius Thomas ideal free agent target for New York Jets

It’s no secret that for the past few years the New York Jets haven’t had any game-changing tight ends that brought a new dimension to their offense. While last season the Jets got to see what rookie Jace Amaro brought to the table, he still has a long way to go before he hits his true potential.

Starter Jeff Cumberland didn’t have a groundbreaking season either with just 247 yards and three touchdowns. The Jets had high hopes that Amaro would emerge as a superstar last season but he didn’t deliver anywhere near such status. That’s why it’s important the Jets spend some money to upgrade the position by pursuing the top free agent tight end come free agency in Julius Thomas.

While there is no guarantee Thomas will even hit free agency, if he does though, he would bring such an immediate presence on a Jets offense that simply couldn’t score any touchdowns. It boggled the minds of many how the Jets did so poorly when it came to scoring, especially in the red zone.

They ended great drives without anything to show for it since they couldn’t get any touchdowns for their efforts. Of course the Jets need to fix their issues at quarterback and add another target to their wide receiving corps but having a top tight end does indeed add another key option to create plays around, especially if they are a reliable target.

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Thomas excels when it comes to scoring in the red zone which is what makes him such a top free agent; his ability to make plays when they matter most. Considering that last season his red zone percentage was 86.7% (13/15 attempts when targeted) and he contributed nine touchdowns when in scoring position proves he has what it takes to be a solid threat.

Let’s face it, the Jets offensive weapons last season really didn’t intimidate or even scare any defenses since they don’t have the playmakers to warrant any fear. With a new offensive coordinator in Chan Gailey, there is a huge chance the Jets might incorporate a spread offense which could do wonders if they acquire the right pieces starting with Thomas.

If the Jets deploy a spread offense come 2015, having a speedy and reliable tight end is key for it to really click on all cylinders. Since new general manager Mike Maccagnan has stated he will be aggressive come free agency, he surely must be thinking about adding some new weapons to offense. Truth of the matter is, defense only gets you so far and at the end of the day, it’s a high-powered offense that usually determines the victor.

Acquiring Thomas would give the Jets a legitimate receiving target that would finally give the Jets a true option to throw to on key third downs and in the red zone. It’s all about keeping those chains moving and making sure to score more points that your opponent. As simple as that sounds, the Jets haven’t been able to punch them in because they don’t have the powerhouse talent that brings aggression to the table and ensures they come away from drives with touchdowns. Thomas would bring that and much more to the Jets if he’s available for the taking.

Overall, Thomas is an ideal target for the Jets to increase production from one of the key positions on offense that they haven’t really invested much money in. Bringing in Thomas would give the Jets a much needed boost on offense and finally usher in some excitement to watch the team be in a position to score plenty of touchdowns. With making a big splash in free agency by acquiring Thomas, it proves the Jets want to bounce back nicely come next season. It all starts with getting top talent that makes the Jets competitive again so they can finally head in a better direction.

Next: 5 reasons why New York Jets need to sign Antonio Cromartie

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