The New York Jets’ veteran specialist duo is officially back
The New York Jets are keeping their effective special teams unit together.
On Wednesday afternoon, veteran punter Thomas Morstead signed a two-year contract with the Jets worth over $5 million.
Source: The #Jets are re-signing punter Thomas Morstead to a 2-year deal worth over $5M. pic.twitter.com/eVtzt4MUsZ
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 13, 2024
Morstead, 38, posted a picture of himself and his family signing the contract on Twitter, saying that the deal was official and that he is grateful for it.
Officially official!
So grateful!#Jets #2MoreYears pic.twitter.com/Va2XKARiwm— Thomas Morstead (@thomasmorstead) March 13, 2024
While it is not a blockbuster deal for a flashier position such as offensive line or wide receiver, the Jets’ decision to re-sign Morstead is still something that Jets fans should be thrilled about.
Before Morstead’s arrival, the team’s punting was extremely lackluster. Opponents would consistently get good field position and be able to wear down the Jets’ defense, reducing their effectiveness.
Morstead put the Jets’ defense in much better positions throughout the 2023 season. The veteran punter consistently pinned teams deep in their own territory, setting up the Jets’ defense for success. Morstead was a big reason why the Jets scored an NFL-high three safeties – all three were set up by a Morstead punt inside the 7-yard line.
Special teams play is constantly overlooked in the NFL, even though having an upper-tier unit can swing losses into wins. Field position can affect scoring and turnovers, ultimately leading to points in either direction.
With Morstead back in the fold, the Jets should be in an excellent position to have a solid special teams unit again, which could help them notch a few more victories in 2024.
