Post-Draft Jets Offseason AnalysisFollowing is a review and analysis of the Jets' offseason moves, by position:
QB: Released Patrick Ramsey, signed Marques Tuiasosopo.
On paper, this is clearly a downgrade. However, the Jets were obviously intent on promoting Kellen Clemens to backup quarterback and didn't want to keep Ramsey around as their number 3.
RB: Released Kevan Barlow, traded for Thomas Jones.
This is a significant improvement, though Jones' performance will give an indication of whether Barlow was simply terrible or the run blocking is completely ineffective between the tackles.
FB: B.J. Askew signed with Tampa, replaced with Darian Barnes.
The Jets never really utilized Askew's offensive talent that caused them to draft him in the 3rd round. Barnes is reputed to be a better blocker but has no offensive skills.
TE: No moves were made at tight end.
WR: Aside from drafting Chansi Stuckey in the 7th round, no moves were made. Rumors persist that the Jets will release number 3 WR Justin McCareins. I'm not a fan of McCareins, but unless someone steps up as the third receiver during camp, he should stay on for another year.
OL: No moves aside from drafting Jacob Bender in the 6th round. Rich Cimini of the Daily News reports that guard Pete Kendall may be released. That would make absolutely no sense.
Overall, the addition of Jones helps at RB, but the Jets could have used a number 3 WR and help at OL. With a tougher 2007 schedule, Chad Pennington cannot be expected to again lead the Jets to the playoffs. The defense will have to step up and win a few ugly low scoring games. Fortunately, the Jets did make several notable moves on defense:
DL: Jets signed ex-Cowboys backup DE Kenyon Coleman to a large contract. They also signed ex-Dolphins DE/OLB David Bowens.
The Jets have improved their pass rush at least a little, though they could have also used a run stuffing DT.
LB: Perhaps 2nd round pick ILB David Harris will be the run stopper the Jets lack at DT. Cimini thinks that drafting Harris means Eric Barton is a goner. I'm not a huge Barton fan either, but with the Jets under the cap, I'd prefer to keep him around another year even if he's overpaid.
DB: Darrelle Revis instantly improves the Jets at CB. Again, per Cimini, the Jets may as a result release David Barrett. Again, my analysis is the same - keep him around for another year, unless cutting him frees up money to fill a need at another position. The Jets have the same group of safeties, and will have to hope that someone steps up at SS.
Overall, Coleman, Bowens, Revis and Harris should improve the defense, and the Jets look to be more talented heading into 2007 than they were in 2006. More talented, but probably not a Super Bowl contender, especially with their tougher schedule and in light of the Patriots fantastic offseason.
posted on 5/01/2007
