The New York Jets have the financial firepower to make some real moves in free agency this year, and they’re expected to use that muscle to bring in some key difference-makers on both sides of the ball. However, the wrong signings could send them in the wrong direction. Here are the players they need to avoid going after this offseason:
S Nate Allen
Upgrading the secondary is one of the Jets’ biggest priorities this offseason, but in a weak free agency class at the position, Nate Allen is one of the better options. He should be entering the prime of his career at age 27 that will likely cause a team to overpay for his services even though he’s just not that good. Allen allowed a 106.2 passer rating, five touchdowns, and a terrible 17.5 yards per completion for the Eagles last season, making it clear that he’s not a consistent starting-caliber guy.
QB Mark Sanchez
The Jets desperately needs to address their quarterback situation, but a reunion absolutely should not be in the cards. Some people have pointed to the two AFC Championship Games Sanchez led the Jets to, yet it still important to remember how his stint in New York ended. Sanchez showed he’s still a turnover machine with 11 INT’s and four lost fumbles in just nine games last season, and New York needs someone who can take care of the ball.
RB Ryan Mathews
New York is in the market for a running back to pair with Chris Ivory, and Mathews is one of the bigger names on the market. He has been productive in his young career, but had dealt with numerous injuries and was limited to just six games last season. The injuries will drive the price down for Mathews, but the tag will still be relatively high. The reward just doesn’t outweigh the risk for the Jets for the amount of money they’d have to spend on him.
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