The New York Jets were an active team in free agency, but they were reluctant to give long-term contracts to the players they signed. Joe Douglas, the general manager of the Jets, explained his ‘disciplined' approach to NFL free agency.
“We feel these signings give us flexibility in the draft,” Douglas said via the JetsWire of the many one-year deals he has handed out.
Over the first few weeks of the new league year, New York has signed or re-signed 13 players. Of the 13 players that they signed, nine of them were given one-year deals for the upcoming season.
On the other hand, the longest contracts that the Jets handed out in free agency were three years. However, all three of their three-year contracts were given to George Fant, Connor McGovern, and Greg Van Roten.
By giving short-term contracts, the Jets can get a good look at a player in 2020. If the player performs well, then Douglas could begin talks with the player on an extension.
Also, even though the Jets had an ample amount of cap space, they understand they have to be careful with how much they spend. Douglas realizes that teams don't win games by spending the most money during the offseason.
With Sam Darnold entering his third season, New York is focused on building for the future. While some fans may have wanted to pursue the marquee players, Douglas is more interested in building a foundation first. Only time will tell if Douglas' plan in free agency provides some fruitful results in the near future.
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