The New York Jets have been actively scouting the free-agent market for edge rushers this offseason, with Jadeveon Clowney not being their sole focus. Longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass rusher Shaq Barrett also found himself on their radar.
Despite serious interest from the Jets, Barrett ultimately inked a one-year deal potentially worth $9 million with the Miami Dolphins. According to Barrett himself, the Jets were the preferred destination until the Dolphins swooped in at the eleventh hour.
When questioned about his decision to choose the Dolphins over the Jets, Barrett cited the common factor of “no state taxes” as a contributing factor. However, he also implied that he views the Dolphins as a more established and proven team compared to their AFC East counterparts, taking a subtle dig at the Jets’ organization.
While it’s likely that the Dolphins offered Barrett a more lucrative deal, coupled with the appeal of Florida’s tax laws, players seldom admit that money was the sole determinant. Hence, Barrett’s comments can be interpreted as a slight aimed at the Jets.
However, it’s worth questioning the assertion of the Dolphins’ established status, given their lack of playoff success since 2000. On the other hand, the Jets managed to win seven games in the previous season amidst quarterback and offensive line turmoil.
Here is the clip of Shaq Barrett telling me he thought he was going to land with the Jets and then the Dolphins came out of nowhere and signed him last second. @CBSSportsRadio @560WQAM @WFAN660 https://t.co/4wte48xh1d pic.twitter.com/LDidrvABLY
— Zach Gelb (@ZachGelb) March 22, 2024
Looking ahead, the Jets are poised for improvement in 2024 with the return of Aaron Rodgers and upgrades across the roster, making them a formidable team. Despite Barrett’s recent production dip, the Jets are actively pursuing high-profile edge rushers in free agency, including Clowney.
With Bryce Huff departing for the Philadelphia Eagles, the Jets are in need of a replacement. Barrett’s revelation underscores how close the Jets were to securing his services this offseason, highlighting their ongoing efforts to bolster their roster while their division rivals, like the Dolphins, seek to maintain their competitive edge.
