New York Jets: Grading early 2018 free agent signings

Avery Williamson, LB

The 6-1, 246-pounder is essentially replacing Demario Davis at inside linebacker. The Jets and Davis could not agree on contract terms, so Maccagnan signed Williamson to a three-year, $22.5 million pact. $16 million is guaranteed.

The University of Kentucky product is regarded as an excellent run stuffer, ranking third among inside linebackers per Pro Football Focus Edge. He’s also three years younger than Davis at 26 years of age. Williamson recorded 92 tackles and three sacks last year for the Titans. He led Tennessee in tackles from 2015-16.

The one Achilles heel that Williamson has is that he is not very effective in pass coverage. He doesn’t have great lateral speed. That’s why the Jets may need to take a serious look at a speedy linebacker like Rashaan Evans of Alabama in the draft.

Grade: C+

Next: NFL Power Rankings: Cousins, free agency change things

Spencer Long, C

The University of Nebraska product was Kirk Cousins’ center the last four seasons with the Redskins. He was inked to a four-year deal for $28 million. When healthy, the 27-year old Long is a huge upgrade over Wesley Johnson, who really struggled in 2017. Long is strong and athletic and should fit New York’s zone blocking scheme well.

The issue is that the 6-5, 320-pounder is injury prone. He has missed 13 games the last three seasons, including nine last year with a quad injury that eventually required surgery. He’s very talented but risky due to durability concerns.

Grade: C