The start of NFL free agency is quickly approaching, and the New York Jets are set to face several crucial roster decisions over the coming weeks.

Despite having significant cap space this offseason, the Jets can’t spend rashly, given the number of roster holes.

Throughout free agency, the Jets should be focused on two principles when targeting players: value and scheme fit.

Finding value is the Jets’ priority

The Jets should not be focused on targeting the biggest names in this year’s free agency class, such as Malik Willis and Wan’Dale Robinson.

Instead, they should focus on finding the best value by targeting players who can provide production that exceeds their price tag.

For the Jets, this approach is critical because they have such a vast quantity of needs across their depth chart. A case can be made that the Jets could upgrade at nearly every position on their depth chart in free agency, making value more important than overpaying for the “big fish.”

New York needs to find a multitude of functional starters and component rotational pieces this offseason. Signing big names to headline-grabbing contracts would be counterproductive to that goal.

Scheme fit is key

Finding players who fit the team’s scheme is more important than ever for the Jets this offseason.

After an abundance of coaching changes this offseason, including changes at offensive and defensive coordinator, the Jets will need to covet players who fit the team’s new schemes on offense and defense.

While the team may feel confident in their revamped coaching staff, it is now up to Gang Green’s front office to identify players in this year’s free-agent class who fit the new coaches’ schemes. Ultimately, the coaching changes won’t mean much for the Jets if they can’t pair the new assistants with viable personnel.

In today’s NFL, success rarely comes down to just one of elite coaching or high-level personnel. The ability to marry scheme with the right players ultimately separates the league’s top teams from everyone else.

This year’s Super Bowl provided a perfect example of that. Neither the Seattle Seahawks nor the New England Patriots had rosters with as much star power as those of previous champions.

What they did have, though, was overall cohesion.

Both organizations rostered players who fit their schemes, allowing them to punch above their weight class each week.

If the Jets prioritize value and schematic fit this offseason, similar results could follow.

The success of the Jets’ 2026 offseason will be measured by how well their additions fit rather than how much money they spend.