The Cap
Brett Favre announced his retirement last week and it was the best thing that could have happened to the Jets. Favre led the league in interceptions last year and it was clear at the end of the season that he just didn't have it anymore. With Favre's retirement, the Jets will save $13 million in cap space. Coupled with recent cuts, the Jets are currently $18 million under the cap.
Jets' Needs
The Jets are a team built to win now, as they have a mostly veteran roster with many players in the prime of their careers. Their 8-3 start last season proved that they are not that far away from being a Super Bowl contender. If they are going to take the next step next this year, they must first address their most pressing needs - quarterback, wide receiver, linebacker, and cornerback.
Quarterback
With Favre's retirement, the Jets have an opening at quarterback. Their best option would have been the Patriot's Matt Cassell, but the Pats franchised him and it's unlikely that they would trade him to the Jets. So, the Jets should turn their attention to Jeff Garcia. Garcia is the best free-agent quarterback available. He is a former pro-bowler, and he has led the 49'ers, Eagles, and Buccaneers to the playoffs in his career. For his career, he has nearly a 2-1 touchdown to interception ratio (161 TDs, 83 INTs). He would be a perfect fit for the Jets' offense.
Wide Receiver
The Jets could use a game-breaking wide receiver. Coles and Cotchery are solid, but they need more speed and a legitimate deep threat. Free-agent T.J. Houshmandzadeh would fit the bill. Every season he is at the top of the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. If they can't get him, Anquan Boldin would be a good alternative. He is a prolific wide receiver and he wants out of Arizona. If they must cut Laveranues Coles to make room for a number one receiver, then that's what they should do.
Linebacker
Another need for the Jets is a big-time game-changing linebacker. Bart Scott fits that description. He has good speed and is an excellent tackler. Another option is Ray Lewis. He is getting up there in years but he's still all over the field making plays. Both of these guys are also familiar with Jets' head coach Rex Ryan, who was their defensive coordinator in Baltimore.
Cornerback
The Jets could use a cornerback, opposite Derrelle Revis. They should take a look at the recently released Chris McAllister. He was hurt last year, but, when healthy, he is a very good cornerback. He would compliment Revis well. He is also familiar with Jets' head coach Rex Ryan, who coached him in Baltimore. If they can't get him, Bryant McFadden would be a nice alternative. He is a solid cornerback who was part of that great Steelers' defense last season.
Outlook for 2009
Despite the disappointing end to last season, there is reason for optimism, heading into the 2009 season. If the Jets make the right moves in the off-season and fulfill their most pressing needs, they could be a Super Bowl contender in 2009.
