Maybe the New York Jets were willing to take a big swing in free agency, rather than solely focus on bargain bin-type players.
According to Mike Klis of 9News, the Jets made a late push for All-Pro free agent safety Talanoa Hufanga after he had already agreed to a three-year, $39 million deal with the Denver Broncos.
“The New York Jets swooped in to make an after-the-bell pitch of sorts to Hufanga with a sweetened offer,” wrote Klis. “Freshly hired Jets general manager Darren Mougey, in his first free agency, while sitting in the big chair, displayed the competitive spirit honed during his 13 seasons working his way up the Broncos’ personnel ladder.”
The former San Francisco 49ers starter dealt with injuries over the past two seasons, leaving him sidelined for half of his games from 2023-24.
In 2023, Hufanga played 10 games, recording three interceptions and 52 tackles before suffering a season-ending torn ACL. In 2024, the USC product appeared in just seven games, collecting 38 tackles (two for loss). He dealt with three different injuries, missing games for knee, ankle, and wrist ailments.
However, in 2022, Hufanga impressed. As a 17-game starter for the 49ers, he logged four interceptions, nine passes defended, two forced fumbles, two sacks, and 97 tackles (five for loss), earning first-team All-Pro honors.
The Jets’ interest in Hufanga is unsurprising, as safety was a major position of need entering free agency. He also has a direct connection to the Jets’ coaching staff, having played under defensive coordinator Steve Wilks with the 49ers in 2023.
Although the Jets ultimately did not land Hufanga, their interest shows that Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn were willing to take a big swing on the right player, not just hunt for bargains.
