Jets’ Offensive Line Could Be Difference In Successful 2016

Ryan Clady, Left Tackle

Ryan Clady has participated in just 18 games over the last three NFL seasons – which equaled an opportunity of 48 possible games.

Most of his absence was due to a torn ACL, causing him to miss the entirety of the Denver Broncos 2015 Super Bowl Championship season. Previously, he dealt with a lisfranc injury that sidelined him for all but two games in 2013.

The man is a walking hospital.

Hospital or not, he’s a solid gamble for the Jets.

When he became expendable this past offseason, Mikey Mac had no other choice to pounce. While he does bring a hefty $6 million cap hit, his deal ends after 2016 (club option for 2017).

Should the 29-year old stay healthy, the Jets will see an increase in production at the position thanks to the two-time first team NFL All-Pro.

The recently retired D’Brickashaw Ferguson simply didn’t do the job towards the end of his career. The beloved Jet never a missed a game his entire career while protecting the blindside for a plethora of Jet QBs the last 10 years, but his production was less than stellar as of late.

Most pressures allowed by OTs last season:

1. Ereck Flowers, NYG (69)
2. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, NYJ (59)
3. Garry Gilliam, SEA (58)

— PFF (@PFF) May 24, 2016

Clady will be the ultimate wild card. If he can regain his All-Pro form, the ski is the limit for this unit. Should he stay sidelined, the Jets offensive line could be headed for some troubled times.

 Brian Winters