Jets: 5 Early free agent targets for New York in 2021

The Jets should be aiming to upgrade a weak offense in 2021 free agency.

Like any good long-suffering (but proud) New York Jets fan, it’s time to look a year ahead to next offseason before the 2020 NFL season has even begun. The Jets could have another disappointing season, miss the playoffs and, if they’re wise, cut ties with head coach Adam Gase along the way (and replace him with Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy).

More than a coaching change that needs to happen in the 2021 offseason, though, the Jets need to look to free agency to improve their roster. Most specifically, they need to look to their weak offensive group and find ways in which they can upgrade there.

Yes, players like Joey Bosa could be available in 2021. But the offensive deficiencies are too great to ignore. These five early targets would go a long way in improving the group that’s tasked with putting points on the board. (Note: Per Over the Cap, the Jets have just over $55 million of projected cap space in 2021.)

New York Jets 2021 target No. 5: Cooper Kupp, WR (Rams)

New York has one of the worst wide receiver corps in the NFL. Yet, the front office has routinely not addressed the issue adequately. Yes, the defense has been a concern and so too has been the offensive line. But if they want Sam Darnold to improve, he needs weapons to throw to who can consistently help him.

Cooper Kupp is still a young player at 27 years old and has impressive production over his first four NFL seasons. With the money that the Jets have in cap space, it’s about time they utilized it on a player to help out the wide receiver group. Moreover, Kupp can be a young target to grow with Darnold.

New York Jets 2021 target No. 4: JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR (Steelers)

Another receiver is added to the mix as a potential Jets target for 2021 free agency. JuJu Smith-Schuster (or even T.Y. Hilton, who could also be available) would bring New York a strong presence on offense, something fans haven’t seen in quite some time. Smith-Schuster, Hilton or Kupp would be players who, although somewhat expensive, wouldn’t be completely bank-breakers while also helping the team’s biggest weakness.

New York Jets 2021 target No. 3: Hunter Henry, TE (Chargers)

Can anyone name the last New York Jets tight end who was able to effectively block while also be a contributor as a pass-catcher? Anyone?

New York needs to improve at the position and Hunter Henry, a six-year veteran and dependable tight end, is capable of doing exactly that. Darnold needs someone to both help provide him time in the pocket and make safety-valve type receptions. Henry would be able to give the young quarterback both of those things.

New York Jets 2021 target No. 2: Andy Dalton, QB (Cowboys)

Andy Dalton is one of the best backup quarterbacks in the NFL. Frankly, he was one of several options that the Jets should’ve looked at to bring in for the 2020 season to compete with Darnold and potentially take the starting job if the youngster struggles. Especially if Darnold doesn’t show more than he has over two seasons this year, Dalton could be a solid veteran upgrade. Even if not, he’d be a high-quality backup and worthwhile pickup.

New York Jets 2021 target No. 1: Brandon McManus, K (Broncos)

It’s no secret that the Jets have seen their share of awful kickers in recent years. But when they finally had a Pro Bowl player at the position a few years ago with Jason Myers, they let him walk in free agency.

Next. 2021 NFL Draft: Steelers turn page at QB in mock. dark

New York needs reliability and a franchise player at the position so that it’s not an inherent weakness on their roster. Brandon McManus could fill that role. Matt Prater is another option in this regard. But in either case, McManus and Prater would address the team’s need to find a strong answer on special teams.

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