Jets: 3 free agents who could alter 2021 NFL Draft plans

2. Joe Thuney, IOL, New England Patriots

Okay, let’s try this again. The New York Jets were reportedly interested in Joe Thuney in 2020 before the Patriots hit him with the franchise tag right before the deadline. With general manager Joe Douglas still looking to solidify the offensive line, it is reasonable to infer that Douglas would still be in on Thuney. The Patriots are likely to let Thuney hit the open market with sixth round pick Michael Onwenu playing well his rookie year.

With a rookie quarterback likely coming in April, the Jets would love to start building an offensive line for him. 2020 first round pick Mekhi Becton is looking like a stalwart left tackle. Completing the left side of that line with Thuney could make the transition to the NFL much easier for whoever the Jets decide to select with the second overall pick.

Thuney, 28, will likely command top dollar among guards and the Jets certainly have the ability to compensate him. There has been discussion following the Super Bowl about team building and the importance of pass protection. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ pass rush dominated Kansas City’s weak offensive line. Perhaps the Jets choose to prioritize the offensive line and win the potential bidding war for the two time Super Bowl champion.

The Jets are constantly being mocked offensive linemen, and that is still a possibility. However, with Thuney in the fold, that need may get pushed down the board. Having two good starters already locked up on the left side and an average center in Connor McGovern would allow the Jets to add to other parts of the roster with their premium picks. This team still needs a lot of help at cornerback and edge rusher.