Five Reasons the Jets Are the Early Winners in Free Agency

It was a big first day in free agency for the Jets, who aggressively attacked their weaknesses, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Today should be a little slower, but there are still a few potential deals that could be closed over the weekend.

1. Jets Sign ILB Bart Scott

It is one thing to talk about Scott likely being a Jet in the weeks leading up to free agency and it is another for the Jets to outbid and outwork the Ravens for him. Scott and David Harris instantly form a great inside linebacker duo for the Jets' 3-4.

Good luck to opposing teams trying to run the ball up the middle on Kris Jenkins, Scott, and Harris.

The Jets were smart for pursuing the 28-year-old Scott instead of the 34-year-old Ray Lewis, who now seems to be having a tough time finding a home.

Scott will help the Jets linebackers with the learning curve in picking up Rex Ryan's defense, and will also provide an upgrade over Eric Barton.

2. Jets Re-Sign OG Brandon Moore

After being turned down by Steelers guard Chris Kemoeatu, the Jets smartly brought back Brandon Moore before he could spend more than a full day on the free agent market. Moore is the Jets' best run blocker, and his return will allow the Jets to keep the chemistry they formed last year on the offensive line.

3. Jets Trade 2009 Fifth Round Pick and 2010 Conditional Pick For CB Lito Sheppard 

Sheppard is a two time Pro-Bowl player who will step in right away next to Darrelle Revis. He was pushed out of the starting lineup by Asante Samuel last year, but, when Sheppard is healthy, he is a solid No. 1 corner and an excellent No. 2 corner, which he will be on the Jets.

4. Jets Close to Signing Corey Ivy

Ivy is a quality nickel back, who Rex Ryan is comfortable with from his years in Baltimore. The Jets have made him an offer, but Ivy is still testing the market. If the Jets can bring him in, they would have a solid, deep group of corners with Revis, Sheppard, Ivy, and Dwight Lowery.

5. Jim Leonhard Coming in for a Visit

Most people expect a deal with Leonhard to be done by the end of the day, which would be a nice pickup for the Jets. Leonhard is another Rex Ryan guy, who is coming off a big time performance in the playoffs. He would fill the long-standing hole next to Kerry Rhodes at safety.

If the Jets can wrap up deals with Ivy and Leonhard, they will have filled their weaknesses at linebacker, safety, and corner and significantly improved an already good defense.

However, the Jets still have some issues on offense. They need a wide receiver, a blocking tight end, and more depth on the offensive line.

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