What to expect from Jets in NFL free agency: Receiver pursuit, Bryce Huff dilemma

The NFL’s free agent negotiating window opens at noon on Monday and players will fly off the board quickly as they reach deals with teams.

Here are some Jets-related thoughts in the final hours before the madness begins: 

1. Jets fans expecting the team to sign top-of-the-market free agents on Day 1 are going to be disappointed. I think the Jets will be active but I don’t see them setting the market at positions. Joe Douglas will be shopping for value and that usually comes after the first wave of free agents sign.

This will irritate many Jets fans, but you should remember all the mistakes this team has made through the years by throwing big money at free agents.

Players are free agents for a reason. Sometimes it is simply money, but most of the time they are flawed players and that is why their former team let them walk. 

The Jets feel like they have a strong core of young players who are improving and the presence of Aaron Rodgers will elevate those around him.

While fans might expect Douglas to be in desperation mode, that is not what I expect. I think he will slow play things and hunt for value signings. 

It’s no secret the Jets are going to target offensive linemen, wide receivers and a backup quarterback with interior defensive line and safety as secondary needs. 

Deep breaths Jets fans. Don’t freak out if your team is not throwing money at people at 12:01. 

2. The Jets were in on Jerry Jeudy but the Broncos decided to trade him to the Browns.

My understanding is the Jets gave a competitive offer but the Broncos preferred Cleveland’s deal.

Just because the Jets were interested in Jeudy, don’t expect them to make a trade for a wide receiver.

I think they viewed Jeudy as a perfect fit for what they need from a skill and contract perspective. That is not going to be the case with other receivers who might be available by trade.

The Steelers’ Diontae Johnson has been mentioned but I don’t think he fits the Jets.

The Broncos are not expected to trade their other receiver Courtland Sutton, so stop dreaming about that.

The Jets are going to have to get a receiver in free agency and probably draft one, too.

3. My sense for a while has been that Bryce Huff would not be re-signing with the Jets and I continue to feel that way, even more now that it is clear he is going to be able to test the market. 

The Jets love Huff and want him back but they are not going to spend over the number they have set for him.

I think they would go in the $15 million-$16 million-per-year range for him but not higher. Huff and his agent clearly think they can get more on the open market. 

It will be interesting to see how much Huff gets. He is a fascinating player. He is great at what he does but has had a limited role with the Jets.

Will another team see him as an every-down player? If someone does, Huff will go there even if the Jets match the money.

It is clear Huff does not like his part-time role with the Jets. His first priority is getting paid, as it should be, but I think playing time will also be a factor in his decision. 

4. I think the Jets will get deals done with Greg Zuerlein, Thomas Morstead, Quinton Jefferson and Solomon Thomas to return. I’m not sure about any of their other free agents.