New England Patriots: Eye on the AFC East — New York Jets
By Hal Bent
OFFENSE:
It all starts with quarterback Sam Darnold. The New York Jets were fortunate that the cross-town Giants took a running back at No. 2 in the 2018 NFL Draft, and allowed them to get their man in Darnold.
While Darnold threw 15 interceptions to go with only 17 touchdowns, he displayed growrth throughout the season, finishing strong with six touchdowns and just one interception in his last four games of the season.
Running back needs an immediate upgrade, as free agent Isaiah Crowell and veteran Bilal Powell struggled with injuries. Youngster Elijah McGuire is clearly not the answer. The Jets re-signed Quincy Enunwa – despite more injury issues in 2018 – and Robby Anderson was the only other receiver worthy of being considered a contributor in 2019.
At long last, the Jets may have finally unearthed a tight end with some potential in fourth-round draft pick Christopher Herndon, who appears to have the makings of a solid all-around asset in the passing game.
Left tackle Kelvin Beachum is pretty darn good, but the rest of the offensive line is full of younger players and underperforming veterans who struggled in 2018. Brian Winters struggled the least, which is damning with faint praise. Spencer Long is simply not the answer at center, and right tackle was a black hole all season long.