The talented edge rusher spoke about his upcoming free agency and what he wants going forward
The New York Jets are in danger of losing one of their best defenders.
Speaking with ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Bryce Huff said he views himself as a full-time player going forward.
“I definitely want to be able to find a scheme that sees me as an every-down player,” Huff explained. “It gives me the opportunity to show that I can be a top-tier edge in this league in the run and in the pass. So that’s definitely something I’m going to be looking for.”
Huff also said he believes he can be a “legitimate run-stopper” and wants to play in the best possible situation for himself.
“I feel like I still need to go wherever’s best for me personally, just because of how much work I put in. I feel like I owe it to myself to really reach my full potential as far as playing time and really reaching for (statistical) goals.”
After the team’s victory over the Patriots on Sunday, Huff elaborated on his free agency plans, saying, “There won’t be any discount.” The edge rusher said he owes it to his family to take the best deal possible.
Bryce Huff finished this season with 10.5 sacks. He’s going to get a ton of contract offers on the open market.
Asked Huff if he’d give #Jets a hometown discount to stay in New York, or if he’s going to highest bidder.
“There won’t be any discount.”
Said he owes it to… pic.twitter.com/MUF8tW7IGH
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) January 7, 2024
The contract situation with Huff is very interesting as the Jets head toward the offseason.
There is a considerable argument that the team should have locked up Huff prior to this season when he already had impressive underlying metrics as a pass-rusher. Even with limited playing time in previous years, Huff was arguably the team’s best edge player.
Huff has improved his overall numbers this season with expanded playing time. He posted 10.5 sacks and over 60 total pressures, showing that he can sustain his production as a full-time player.
New York now will have significant competition to re-sign Huff, as he will enter unrestricted free agency. While having an emerging star in Jermaine Johnson, edge depth is necessary for the Jets’ defense, and Huff is vital to their success. 2023 first-round pick Will McDonald may factor into this decision, but he is largely unknown after barely playing this season.
Ultimately, this is a situation of New York’s own creation, and they will feel the ramifications of Huff’s decision whether he returns to New York or not.
