The New York Jets have been aggressive at the start of free agency, adding key pieces on both sides of the ball as they look to keep spending their $82M+ in cap space. The Jets' latest and biggest splash thus far came in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
According to multiple reports, four-time Pro Bowl linebacker CJ Mosley is expected to sign a massive five-year $85 million deal with the Jets, which includes $51 million guaranteed.
Mosley, 26, was the leading tackler for the Baltimore Ravens last season and was the team's top target heading into free agency. However, the Jets simply made Mosley an offer he couldn't refuse.
According to ESPN, Mosley is one of two players, along with Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers, to record at least 500 tackles, eight sacks and eight interceptions since he entered the NFL in 2014. The former Alabama star, who was selected 17th overall by Baltimore in 2014, is expected to anchor the Jets' 3-4 defense as a middle linebacker under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.
Per ESPN:
"The Jets envision Mosley, 26, as an inside linebacker in their 3-4 scheme and the leader of the front seven. They now have five starting-caliber linebackers, with Mosley, Avery Williamson and Darron Lee inside and Barr and Jordan Jenkins outside. Williamson's $6 million is fully guaranteed, so he likely will remain as Mosley's inside partner."
In addition to the huge Mosley deal, the Jets also went out and signed former Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr. Like Mosley, Barr is also 26 and has earned Pro Bowl honors in four of his first five seasons.
The Jets have also agreed to deals with former Redskins slot receiver Jamison Crowder, and receiver/special teams standout Josh Bellamy.
UPDATE: