Breaking: Jets sign Tyron Smith

The Jets are unloading the clip:

Source: The #Jets are expected to sign former #Cowboys All-Pro and Pro Bowl LT Tyron Smith, a new blindside protector for Aaron Rodgers. pic.twitter.com/VLNEDMzDds

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 16, 2024

This is quite a coup for New York, especially at this price:

Initial indications of the Tyron Smith deal: $6.5 million guaranteed with another $13.5 million to be earned based on playing time and other incentives. That’s why the Jets were surprised he took the offer.

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 16, 2024

The move confirms a few key things, all of which we expected:

• Joe Douglas' willingness to spend big heading into a make-or-break year. The team will now also meet with wide receiver Mike Williams and defensive lineman Jadeveon Clowney over the new few days;
• Mekhi Becton's departure is secured;
• Alijah Vera-Tucker's permanent move back to guard is confirmed; and
• Aaron Rodgers' presence on the roster is still alluring to big name players.

The main potential downside with this deal is that Smith missed plenty of time over the past few seasons, but the contract protects the Jets against him missing time. The good news is that he played 942 regular and postseason snaps in 2023, his most since 2018.

Bonus Link: We wrote about the possibility of the Jets signing Smith here.