New York Jets free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

4. NaVorro Bowman, Linebacker

This selection may elicit some eye-rolls from some but former San Francisco standout NaVorro Bowman could be a good fit on the Jets for a few reasons. New York was gouged on the ground last year to the tune of over 117 rushing yards given up per game. While the best days of Bowman’s career are behind him, he is still under 30 years old and could help stop the opposing running game. That is likely his best role moving forward and the Jets should capitalize on it.

Nobody is suggesting that Bowman is still the playmaker he was back in his glory days in San Francisco. He’s a shade more limited than he used to be but the Jets need to get opposing running games under control. A veteran leader in that locker room wouldn’t be the worst thing either. Bowman has the reputation and resume to walk in and show some of the younger members of the defense how the job should be done.

There’s also been plenty of noise from guys like Muhammad Wilkerson that can be distracting. Wilkerson himself will likely not be there in 2018 meaning Bowman would have an easier time being the voice for the defense. It would be surprising if Bowman commanded a huge contract on the open market, making him even more appealing to a team like the Jets. Bowman brings plenty to the table that New York could use for the next couple of seasons, even in a run-stopping role.