New York Jets: 5 free agents to sign in order to win in 2020

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 03: Jadeveon Clowney #90 of the Seattle Seahawks runs off the field during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at CenturyLink Field on October 03, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. The Seattle Seahawks top the Los Angeles Rams 30-29. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 03: Jadeveon Clowney #90 of the Seattle Seahawks runs off the field during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at CenturyLink Field on October 03, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. The Seattle Seahawks top the Los Angeles Rams 30-29. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Rob Leiter/Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Rob Leiter/Getty Images /

1. Jadeveon Clowney

More than anything else, an edge rusher will still be the Jets’ biggest need. Not only the No. 1 edge rusher in free agency, but the top free agent still remaining is Jadeveon Clowney. The former Texan was traded to the Seahawks last season where he didn’t show the same consistency, only starting in 11 games.

His last two years in Houston, Clowney picked up 9.5 and 9 sacks but was asked to do more than get to the quarterback. At times, he was put in coverage and even asked to play middle linebacker. The Jets won’t need to get too creative with Clowney with the depth they have a linebacker. Having experience in both the 3-4 and 4-3 and playing them both at a high level should be music to Greg Williams’ ears.

Having Clowney gather all the attention down at the line of scrimmage would benefit 2019 first-round pick, Quinnen Williams. The Jets defensive line struggled to get to the quarterback last season, but Clowney lined up for every snap would open things up.

Clowney could finally break out with a double-digit sack year if he tasked with only getting to the quarterback. If anyone would be able to get the best out of him, it would be Gregg Williams.