Continuity matters for offensive lines. The New York Jets have seen the upside and downside of that reality.
After many years of lacking continuity up front, the Jets are finally building it again.
Four of their five starters from the back half of 2024 are returning for the 2025 season.
Dissecting Jets’ O-Line
It’s almost crazy to think about, but Alijah Vera-Tucker is actually the longest-tenured player in the offensive line room. At just 26 years old and the former 18th overall pick in the 2021 draft, AVT has quickly become a consistent force on New York’s line.
Along the way, other linemen like center Joe Tippmann, left tackle Olu Fashanu, and left guard John Simpson were added to the fold. Seventh overall pick Armand Membou was the most recent addition in April’s draft.
While the group has not been finalized yet, the Jets seem pretty confident in how the group is shaping out.
“I think this is a great group,” Vera-Tucker told team reporter Caroline Hendershot during minicamp. “I think a lot of guys come from backgrounds where you want to come in and work, and everybody in that room has the love for the game, which is really important.
“The O-line is great, too, and I think we’re all on the same page. You know, we all work well together.”
New York will rely heavily on its offensive line this year. If the entire group reaches its full potential, this group has the capabilities to be a top rushing team with one of the best lines in the game.
With a limited quarterback in Justin Fields, the Jets know their offensive line will need to carry them.
There’s nothing wrong with that. The 2021 Philadelphia Eagles reached the playoffs despite mediocre quarterback play from Jalen Hurts. The Detroit Lions have reached back-to-back playoff appearances thanks to the dominance of their line as well.
Having an elite line can fundamentally change how an organization looks. The Jets won’t be the only team relying on their line to lead the way.
They are one of the few teams in the league with each of their spots secure and ready to roll, though.