The Giacomini Game, Clady’s Health
Make no mistake about it, this offensive line is horrifically scary. Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, Matt Forte…hell, even Emmitt Smith can’t do their thing if the offensive line in front of them is weak.
With D’Brickashaw Ferguson riding into the sunset, the Jets didn’t lose much. His play actually ranked near the bottom as it pertained to starting NFL tackles a season ago. For the Jets to capitalize on Brick’s retirement, though, Ryan Clady will have to stay healthy. Should Clady stay healthy, he, James Carpenter and Nick Mangold construct a formidable middle-to-left side.
The right side is an entirely different story.
RELATED: Ranking Jets Veteran Cap Casualties
Brian Winters at right guard will be playing for his NFL future this season and veteran Breno Giacomini will be looking over his shoulder at rookie Brandon Shell. And more importantly, he’ll be looking because his hefty $5.625 million cap hit is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to clearing space.
Depending on who you listen to, the Jets have anywhere from $5.7 to $8.7 million in cap space at the moment.
It is conceivable to think Mikey Mac could fit Fitzpatrick in even at his $12 million per year demand. But if somebody big needs to go, Giacomini could be the guy. And if Shell shines, Giacomini might as well pack his bags early.
