The New York Jets are in the hunt for pass-rush assistance following the departure of Bryce Huff in free agency and their unsuccessful attempt to acquire Jadeveon Clowney this week. Clowney appeared to be an ideal fit for the Jets, sparking optimism that the team could secure his signature.
Ultimately, Clowney opted for a two-year, $20 million deal with the Carolina Panthers. The Jets’ hesitation reportedly stemmed from concerns about the second year of the contract, a decision that is understandable.
Consequently, the Jets find themselves still needing additional depth on their defensive line, with limited attractive options remaining in free agency. However, one notable name stands out: Calais Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowler and probable future Hall of Famer, who is still available. Given the failure to secure Clowney, the Jets should shift their focus to prioritizing Campbell as their top target.
Calais Campbell is a perfect free-agent target for the NY Jets
Despite approaching his 17th year in the NFL and nearing his 38th birthday in September, Calais Campbell maintains an impressive level of play. His tenure with the Atlanta Falcons last season saw him start all 17 games, showcasing what could be considered one of his finest seasons in recent memory.
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In the 2023 season, Campbell recorded 6.5 sacks and 42 total pressures, marking his highest figures since 2019. His Pro Football Focus grade of 80.0 ranked him 15th among all edge defenders who played at least 700 snaps. Notably, his run-defense grade of 80.6 placed him sixth in his position group, alongside standout players such as T.J. Watt, Nick Bosa, and Khalil Mack. Campbell’s ability to maintain such a high level of performance at his age is truly remarkable.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Campbell is widely regarded as one of the most respected and admired figures in the NFL. His numerous awards, including the Art Rooney Award, Bart Starr Award, NFLPA Alan Page Community Award, and recognition as the Walter Payton Man of the Year, attest to his exceptional leadership and sportsmanship qualities.
The Jets pursued Campbell vigorously last offseason, even hosting him for a visit, before he ultimately signed a one-year deal with the Falcons. It would be logical for the Jets to revisit the possibility of signing him this offseason.
While Campbell differs significantly in physique from Bryce Huff, standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 282 pounds, he shares similarities with players like John Franklin-Myers. Despite this difference, the Jets should not be discouraged from pursuing him.
With a need for another seasoned presence in their front seven, the remaining options in free agency predominantly consist of veteran edge rushers who may be past their prime, such as Yannick Ngakoue and Randy Gregory.
Despite his status as one of the NFL’s oldest players, Campbell played over 60 percent of snaps for the Falcons last season at a consistently high level. While Jadeveon Clowney would have been a valuable addition, Campbell could fill a similar role for the Jets and should now be their top priority in free agency.
