Not every swing can be a home run, but it’s helpful if the general manager reaches out at least occasionally.
When it comes to signing free agent receivers, Jets from New York‘ general manager has had more scents than hits. Mike Williams, who has emerged as the latest in a long line of failed signings, lasted just nine weeks at Green & White before is exchanged.
The Jets signed Williams, who was recovering from ACL surgery, to a one-year free-agent contract reportedly worth $10 million in March. He was on the List Physically unable to perform for much of training camp, and that missed time seemingly proved detrimental to building a bond with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Williams was active through New York’s first nine games, playing 53 percent of the offensive snaps, but his production was minimal. He caught 12 of 21 targets for 166 yards and no touchdowns.
The rift between Williams and Rodgers was evident in two late-game interceptions in losses to Minnesota and Buffalo. The future Hall-of-Fame quarterback has made a few choice comment after the second incident.
According to Spotracthe Jets are on the hook for a $5.87 million dead salary cap hit in 2025 thanks to Williams, and it’s not the first time a wide receiver has fallen out during Douglas’ tenure.
Ahead of the 2023 season, New York plucked Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman from the free agent market. After a miserable first trip with the Jets, Lazard has made a full recovery in 2024 has since landed on the Injured Reserve. Hardman’s tenure ended after five appearances and one reception. He returned to Kansas City and Gang Green watched him catch the winning touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII.
The Jets also took a flier on Randall Cobb last year. He made just five catches in eleven games.
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In 2021, New York signed former first-round draft pick Corey Davis to a three-year deal worth $37.5 million. Davis, who left football in August 2023, played just 22 games for Green & White.
In 2020, it was Breshad Perriman who earned $6 million for catching 30 of 60 targets in 12 starts.
In short, Douglas has a poor track record when it comes to identifying the right free-agent wide receivers to bring on board, and the Jets are paying the price.
© Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com
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