5 targets for Jets in 2022 NFL free agency

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 19: Marshon Lattimore #23 and Marcus Williams #43 of the New Orleans Saints celebrate after a loose ball recovery during the 3rd quarter of the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on December 19, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – DECEMBER 19: Dalton Schultz #86 of the Dallas Cowboys catches the ball for a touchdown in front of Logan Ryan #23 of the New York Giants during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium on December 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

2. Top free-agent targets for the New York Jets – TE Dalton Schultz

One position that has become a black hole for the Jets has been tight end. New York has whiffed on several draft picks at the position, including Jace Amaro and Chris Herndon, while free-agent pickups have largely failed to pan out.

Douglas pursued Jonnu Smith in free agency last winter before he signed with New England, leading to a fallback plan centered on former Bengal Tyler Kroft. The move backfired as Kroft was often injured, leaving the uninspiring Ryan Griffin as the primary tight end in an offensive system that is heavily reliant on good tight end play.

The good news for the Jets is that one of the league’s most intriguing tight ends is set to test free agency in Dallas’ Dalton Schultz. Already well-regarded as a blocker, Schultz had a breakout season as a receiver, setting career highs in receptions (78), receiving yards (808) and touchdowns (8).

The Cowboys have some salary cap concerns but they may still find a way to tag Schultz, which would take him off the board for the Jets. Schultz should be a top target for the Jets if he reaches free agency but fallback options could include Miami’s Mike Gesicki or a reclamation project such as Evan Engram or O.J. Howard.

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