Jets' Offensive Tackle Strategy: Depth, Trades, and Long-Term Prospects
The New York Jets are witnessing an improvement in their offensive tackle situation as Duane Brown and Mekhi Becton rejoin the starting lineup.
The events of the previous year have emphasized the necessity of depth in the offensive tackle position, a lesson the Jets have taken to heart.
To address this requirement, the Jets are considering the possibility of retaining five offensive tackles on their 53-man roster for the upcoming season.
Promising prospects Max Mitchell and Carter Warren are in the developmental phase, with a potential veteran swing tackle position in the mix.
Billy Turner currently holds the position of the veteran swing tackle, but there's room for improvement as General Manager Joe Douglas explores options.
A unique trade proposition was suggested by Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine on August 24, involving veteran OT La’el Collins.
La’el Collins, a long-standing Dallas Cowboys starter, spent the 2022 season with the Cincinnati Bengals but faced an injury that led to his replacement.
This trade would serve as an insurance policy for the second half of the season, given the uncertainties surrounding the long-term prospects of Brown and Becton.
Analyzing the potential trade in detail, La’el Collins was a reliable right tackle with considerable experience before his injury.
The Jets possess the necessary cap space to accommodate Collins' contract after Corey Davis' retirement, making the trade financially feasible.