The New York Jets Offseason Guide

With the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine drawing to a close this week, we're approaching that special time of the year when teams snag new players.

Free agency begins on March 5th and the draft commences on April 22nd.

With 2010 being an uncapped season, there are several new restrictions that hinder the Jets during free agency especially since they finished in the final four last season.

Make no mistake, if the New York Jets want to take their team to the next level (i.e. Super Bowl) they need to fill several holes during the offseason. This guide serves as a position by position overview of the Jets needs on their roster.

Quarterback 

Free Agents: Kellen Clemens

Analysis: With Sanchez heading into his second season, the Jets need to find a dependable, veteran backup. There's a good chance that the veteran backup won't be Clemens.

Early rumors circled around the return of Chad Pennington, but we'll wait and see on that one.

 

Running Back/Full Back 

Free Agents: Thomas Jones, Leon Washington, Tony Richardson

Analysis: Washington will in all likelihood return. Jones is expected to leave.

The Jets might try to sign another running back, at least for depth purposes (Sproles anyone?). If the Jets are smart, they'll resign Richardson.

Wide Receiver/ Tight End 

Free Agents: Braylon Edwards, Brad Smith, Wallace Wright, Ben Hartsock

Analysis: The consensus among the Jets is to see the return of Edwards and Smith.

For Wallace, there's no guarantee he'll return. Assuming Edwards and Smith join Cotchery and Clowney as wide receivers, they'll still need to grab another wide receiver who can play in the slot role.

This is a must.

Offensive Line 

Free Agents: Wayne Hunter

Analysis: In order for the Jets to have a dominating offensive line again, they need to bring in more depth during the offseason. Otherwise, an injury on the offensive line will hurt them.

Defensive Line 

Free Agents: Marques Douglas, Howard Green

Analysis: The Jets need a pass rusher.

Period.

Preferably, a defensive end. The defensive line is getting old and banged up. I'm not sure if Douglas and Green both return to the Jets, but they must do something about this line.

They should have addressed this last season. 

Linebacker 

Free Agents: Larry Izzo, Ryan Fowler, Marques Murrell

Analysis: Depth at linebacker is another concern for the Jets, especially at outside linebacker. I'm not certain that Bryan Thomas is the answer for the Jets. And I'm certain it's not Vernon Gholston.

Secondary 

Free Agents: Drew Coleman, James Ihedigbo, Eric Smith

Analysis: With respect to Revis and the phenomenal season he had, there will be more of a shakeup to the secondary than any other group on the Jets. They must sign another, shutdown cornerback.

Possible departures include Rhodes, Sheppard, and Coleman.

Special Teams 

Free Agents: Jay Feely

Analysis: The Jets recently signed Nick Folk. Kicker competition, anyone?