Jets Bolster Roster with Key Signings: Okorafor, Weaver, Oliver & Myers Join the Squad!

After a calm second day of free agency, the Jets sprang into action on Wednesday afternoon with a series of moves. The team reached agreements with four players, the most notable being tackle Chukwuma Okorafor.

 

 

 

This signing is bound to raise some eyebrows. Okorafor joined the Patriots last offseason and initially started at left tackle. However, his time in the role was short-lived—lasting only 12 snaps before he was benched. He never saw the field again for New England and was later placed on the reserve/left squad list, reportedly uncertain about continuing his football career.

This followed another setback the previous year when Okorafor was benched midseason in Pittsburgh, losing a starting right tackle position he had held for over three years.

It’s easy to criticize this move, but there is some logic behind it:

• Okorafor turns just 28 in August.
• Since he was released by the Patriots, his signing won’t impact the Jets’ compensatory draft pick formula.
• He has about three and a half years of starting experience.

To be clear, he’s not a high-impact player. If the Jets paid above the league minimum, the move is questionable. He shouldn’t be seen as a solution at starting right tackle.

However, if this is a low-cost gamble to add depth, it’s hard to be too critical. Given his experience, he could be one of the better backup tackles in the league.

 

The Jets have also reachecd an agreement with Rashad Weaver.

 

 

 

Weaver is likely just a camp body as an edge rusher. He was waived by the Titans at the end of the 2024 training camp and later signed with the Texans, where he played only 14 snaps. He then wrapped up the season on the Rams’ practice squad.

The Jets are also bringing back a familiar face on defense: Isaiah Oliver.

Oliver served as a backup for the Jets, playing a hybrid safety/slot corner role. While his performance was unremarkable, his return likely isn’t solely about his on-field contributions. His unique profile could provide value to the team.

Before joining the Jets, Oliver spent the 2023 season with the San Francisco 49ers. Notably, the 49ers’ defensive coordinator that year was Steve Wilks—who has now been hired as the Jets’ new defensive coordinator. This makes Oliver one of the few players with firsthand experience in both the Jets’ previous defensive system and the one they are transitioning into. His familiarity could be valuable in helping the coaching staff implement the new scheme.

Lastly, the Jets have agreed to terms with center Josh Myers.

 

 

Myers was a three-year starter for the Packers, though his performance was inconsistent. If the Jets signed him as a depth piece, this could be a strong move. However, it remains to be seen whether he will serve as a backup or if his addition signals potential changes along the offensive line.

The Jets still have a significant need at right tackle. Right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker has some experience at tackle, while current center Joe Tippmann played some guard during his rookie season. This could open the door for some positional shuffling. Stay tuned.