The New York Jets took a conservative approach during free agency, focusing on younger players with potential rather than making headline-grabbing moves. Their most notable additions were quarterback Justin Fields and defensive back Brandon Stephens, while they also brought back linebacker Jamien Sherwood.
One area the Jets might still look to improve before the season kicks off is at safety. With $13.5 million in cap space freed up after post-June 1 designations for Aaron Rodgers and C.J. Mosley, they have the financial flexibility to make a move.
According to SNY’s Connor Hughes, safety is a position the Jets are monitoring. He mentioned Julian Blackmon and Justin Simmons as viable options still on the market. Simmons, in particular, has ties to Jets GM Darren Mougey from their time together in Denver.
Simmons, a former All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection, signed with Atlanta last season after eight successful years with the Broncos. However, his 2024 performance was disappointing. Despite playing all 16 games, he posted career-low stats across several categories, including just 62 tackles and a 59.9 grade from Pro Football Focus. His run defense and coverage grades were among the worst of his career, and his 16 missed tackles (a 19.8% miss rate) marked a personal worst.
Although Simmons had a standout 2023 season, his decline in 2024 raises questions about his ability to contribute meaningfully going forward. Given the Jets’ focus on youth—only five players on the roster are over 30, second-lowest in the league—it’s unclear if bringing in Simmons would align with their current direction. A reunion with Mougey might be more sentimental than strategic.
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