As part of our season-ending coverage of the New York Jets, we'll take a look at five players who exceeded expectations:
James Carpenter, left guard: There was some skepticism in scouting circles when the Jets gave Carpenter a four-year, $19 million contract last offseason, but it turned out to be a terrific free-agent signing. Carpenter was arguably the Jets' best offensive lineman, flourishing in their man blocking scheme. He embraced the change after four years in the Seattle Seahawks' zone scheme.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, quarterback: He arrived as a backup, coming off a broken leg, and he wound up setting career highs in passing yards (3,905) and touchdowns (31).