The New York Jets have plenty of needs on their roster on the offensive side of the ball.
That doesn’t mean they don’t have some holes to fill on the defensive side, either.
With some needs at safety and defensive tackle, New York could very well be looking to upgrade some high-value defensive positions in free agency. With Jordan Whitehead, Chuck Clark, and Ahstyn Davis all set to hit the open market, there’s even more incentive for Gang Green to upgrade the safety room as soon as possible.
Luckily for them, one of the top modern safeties has just hit the open market early.
Two-time All-Pro Kevin Byard was released by the Philadelphia Eagles Friday afternoon after being traded from the Tennessee Titans in October of 2023. Byard struggled down the stretch with the Eagles but still managed to record over 120 total tackles, one interception, and three passes defended.
Byard will be 31 years old by the time the 2024 season rolls around and is coming off two years where his Pro Football Focus grade has lowered from his prime run of dominance with the Titans.
That doesn’t mean the Jets shouldn’t be interested in a veteran like him.
The former Middle Tennessee State product has plenty of experience in the kind