The New York Jets are searching for solutions at pass rusher this offseason. They’ll play their first preseason contest against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday. It’ll be a quality measuring stick for Aaron Glenn’s defense. Coach Glenn has already confirmed the starters will participate.
Will Mcdonald IV is the Jets’ best edge defender after a breakout 2024 season. Jermaine Johnson II remains on the PUP after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury. With Johnson taking things slowly, the Jets are counting on Micheal Clemons and rookie Tyler Baron to provide some depth.
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General manager Darren Mougey could also consider signing a veteran pass rusher.
The most obvious potential target might be Za’Darius Smith. Smith was traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Detroit Lions midway through 2024, meaning Coach Glenn was his defensive coordinator for a portion of last year. He totaled an effective 9.0 sacks in 17 games.
There’s also Preston Smith, who once played alongside Za’Darius in Green Bay, in the same division Glenn coached in. Preston Smith played for the Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers last year, totaling 4.5 sacks. Prior to that, he had recorded eight-plus sacks in three consecutive campaigns.
Training camp has indicated the Jets could use another veteran rusher to compliment McDonald. An addition would also prevent them from rushing Johnson back. Mougey should seriously consider signing Za’Darius or Preston Smith.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Should the Jets sign a veteran pass rusher before Week 1?