New York Jets’ Defensive Line Dilemma: Securing Long-Term Stability Beyond Quinnen Williams
The New York Jets have secured a cornerstone player for the long term, but apart from Quinnen Williams, they require additional personnel for the interior of their defensive line.
In the upcoming offseason, the Jets have the option to re-sign any or all of the three veteran free agent defensive tackles who made contributions in 2023. Quinton Jefferson and Solomon Thomas are potential candidates for return with contracts that are likely to align with the team’s salary cap constraints. However, Al Woods, who is approaching 37 years of age and is recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon, doesn’t seem to be part of the team’s future plans.
For the sake of consistency, it’s probable that the Jets will choose to retain at least one of either Jefferson or Thomas. Given the significant investment already made in the position with Williams, the relatively affordable options of Jefferson and Thomas seem sensible.
Jefferson, who was contracted for $3.6 million in 2023, demonstrated his value by starting 14 games and recording 34 tackles along with a career-best 6.0 sacks. Despite landing on the Injured Reserve in late December, it was the first time in nearly four seasons that Jefferson had missed a game.
Meanwhile, Thomas, recognized for his strong character, brings experience from his time in Saleh’s system during their tenure with the San Francisco 49ers. He set a career high with 5.0 sacks last season and has been a consistent presence on the field since joining the Jets.
Should the Jets be willing to allocate more funds towards a defensive tackle upgrade, they could pursue options like DaQuan Jones from the Buffalo Bills, who commanded a $7 million salary last year.
Irrespective of their approach, Joe Douglas and the Jets’ front office have a series of decisions to make regarding the defensive line ahead of the start of NFL Free Agency on March 13th.
