NFL New York Jets

5 Bold Predictions for New York Jets in 2015 NFL Free Agency

5 Bold Predictions for New York Jets in 2015 NFL Free Agency

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The Jets are looking to rebuild their franchise, and they need to add talent at several key positions this offseason. New GM Mike Maccagnan has already said the team expects to be “very active” in free agency, which is music to the ears of frustrated Jets fans. The Jets are also below the salary floor, so they don't have a choice but to spend. With that in mind, these are five predictions for the Jets in free agency.

5. The Jets Will Sign a Top Cornerback

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Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

5. The Jets Will Sign a Top Cornerback

antonio cromartie cardinals
Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

Ok, so this isn't that bold, but that doesn't mean it won't happen. Todd Bowles runs a similar scheme to Rex Ryan, meaning he needs quality cover corners. The Jets have one of the weakest groups of corners in the NFL, so expect them to make a sizable offer to someone like Brandon Flowers, Antonio Cromartie, or Byron Maxwell.

4. The Jets Won't Sign a Star Pass Rusher

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4. The Jets Won't Sign a Star Pass Rusher

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The Jets need help at outside linebacker, but the draft class is very deep in that area. Given that there is a good chance top targets Marcus Mariota, Jameis Winston, and Amari Cooper won't be available when the Jets pick at No. 6 overall, they will likely target a pass rusher. Drafting someone like Shane Ray makes a whole lot more sense than throwing huge money at the likes of Pernell McPhee.

3. The Jets Will Make a Significant Investment on the Offensive Line

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3. The Jets Will Make a Significant Investment on the Offensive Line

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The Jets badly need help on the right side of the offensive line, preferably at tackle. The free agent market isn't overwhelming, but making a significant offer to someone like Bryan Bulaga makes a lot of sense as the Jets try to rebuild their line. Getting younger and better is essential here, it will take money to accomplish that.

2. The Jets Won't Target Elite Free Agents

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2. The Jets Won't Target Elite Free Agents

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Jets fans would love to see the team sign someone like Demaryius Thomas, Justin Houston, Jeremy Maclin, or any of the other top free agents. Don't bet on it. Even if those players escape the clutches of their current teams, the Jets aren't an attractive destination despite their significant cap space. Jets fans are going to have to be patient, because this isn't a one year rebuild.

1. Ryan Fitzpatrick Will Be Signed as Starting Quarterback

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1. Ryan Fitzpatrick Will Be Signed as Starting Quarterback

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The Jets would love to find a franchise quarterback, but they just aren't out there this offseason. If Mariota or Winston falls the team would almost certainly take him, but that's not likely. Trading for Jay Cutler is an unlikely and risky option, leaving the Jets with the slim free agent market. Chan Gailey knows Fitzpatrick well, and he has turned him into an effective QB before. Jets fans should start getting used to this idea.

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