
Few teams improved the depth of their roster as succinctly and aggressively as the New York Jets at the start of 2026 free agency.
Since the start of March, Gang Green has added various new players to improve key areas of the roster. From safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to linebacker Demario Davis, the team the Jets come out of the tunnel with in September will be far different than the one that walked off the field in January.
People around the league are taking notice. One top analyst believes the organization has made significant strides.
Former NFL offensive lineman turned NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger has never shied away from criticism when things go wrong for teams.
But speaking on the Jets Official Podcast on Thursday, the former Eagle and Cowboy had plenty to say about the things the Jets have done well in the offseason over the last few weeks.
“I think they really did their homework,” Baldinger said. “They got guys at every level of defense that have been around a long time… It’s good to be able to model yourself after some of the guys, some of the guys they brought in. I think it’s really, really good.”
When the offseason began, the Jets had needs at safety, linebacker, edge rusher, quarterback, and several other important spots. While not every need has been filled, Gang Green has done good work to change the perception around the team.
And that’s been seen throughout the league.
“They rebuilt this roster,” Baldinger said. “It needed to be rebuilt. I think that they got some good value with some real veteran players. Guys have been around a long time, obviously, Demario Davis back to the Jets for the third time, but they got a lot of guys, not just those who are veterans, but guys who have been largely healthy and in leadership roles wherever they’ve been.”
It’s easy to change perception in the offseason, though. If New York really wants to capitalize on their popular offseason, it’ll need to win when it actually matters.
And that’s something they haven’t been able to do.
The Jets have failed to reach the playoffs for 15 consecutive seasons. They haven’t posted a winning record in their last 10 seasons. Coaching, roster issues, and injuries have all played a part in those droughts.
So while Baldinger believes the Jets may be on the right path, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re out of the woods yet.
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