Free Agents Jets Should Pursue After 2024 NFL Draft

The New York Jets need to feel confident with their roster heading into Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season.

The Jets likely have one shot to get everything right around Aaron Rodgers before changes are made.

New York did a good job of adding depth at the offensive skill positions in the 2024 NFL draft, but it could probably add at least one more option through free agency to add competition to training camp.

The Jets have a plethora of young players in the second and third slots on the depth chart at running back and wide receiver. It would not hurt to bring in a veteran or two as insurance in case the younger players prove to be ineffective.

Some extra depth on the offensive line would not hurt either so that the Jets have an plan in place in case Tyron Smith or someone else picks up an injury.

Jerick McKinnon

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LAS VEGAS, NV - FEBRUARY 11: Tommy Townsend #5, Jerick McKinnon #1, and Mike Danna #51 of the Kansas City Chiefs enter the field prior to Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

The Jets have three young running backs, two of which they drafted in 2024, behind Breece Hall on the depth chart.

Israel Abanikanda rarely appeared in the offense last season. Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis appear to be solid backs, but both players have a ton of yards on their legs from Wisconsin and South Dakota State.

None of the three backup running backs are excellent pass-catchers, which is where Jerick McKinnon could fit into the Jets lineup.

McKinnon was the pass-catcher extraordinaire in the Kansas City Chiefs offense for the last few years. He had 81 catches over the last two seasons.

The Jets should try to swoop up McKinnon before another team gets him. He would provide a bit more depth in the passing game and put another veteran presence inside the offense that Rodgers could trust in third-down and red-zone situations.

Robert Tonyan

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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 31: Nate Landman #53 of the Atlanta Falcons attempts to tackle Robert Tonyan #18 of the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field on December 31, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

Why not add another one of Rodgers' former teammates to the roster?

Robert Tonyan went through a down 2023 with the Chicago Bears and is still a free agent because of that.

Tonyan's best season came in 2020 with Rodgers at the helm in Green Bay. He broke out for 586 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Tonyan has not rediscovered that form in the last three seasons, but he could reignite his career through a reunion with Rodgers.

The Jets have Tyler Conklin as their No. 1 tight end, but after that, there is not much proven depth.

The Jets would be taking a risk on Tonyan, but it may be worth it if the Rodgers-Tonyan connection even produces three or four touchdowns in 2024.

Donovan Smith

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BALTIMORE, MD - JANUARY 28: Donovan Smith #79 of the Kansas City Chiefs steps up to block during the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

The Jets brought in more experience on the offensive line with Tyron Smith, John Simpson and Morgan Moses in free agency.

That was a terrific start for the AFC East side, but it could use a little more depth on the interior ahead of training camp.

Donovan Smith could fill either tackle slot if Smith or Moses go down with an injury.

Of course, the Jets would like if that situation never comes up in 2024, but they have to be prepared for everything to get the best out of the Rodgers-led team.

Smith is one of the better offensive line free agents left on the market and is worth a shot based on his experience alone from Tampa Bay and Kansas City.