The New York Jets have turned to veteran offensive tackle Duane Brown in an effort to fill the holes in their offensive line. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Jets signed Brown to a two-year deal that comes with $22 million.
This represents a significant investment in a player that will turn 37 at the end of the month. However, the Jets had little choice after losing third-year OT Mekhi Becton to a knee injury earlier in training camp. It is estimated that the 2020’s first-round pick will be out for the entire upcoming season while recovering.
Brown spent the 2021 NFL season with the Seattle Seahawks, starting all 17 games at left tackle and earning Pro Bowl alternate honors. He reportedly drew interest in free agency from a number of teams, including several that are considered playoff contenders but was drawn to the project in New York and a chance to be a veteran leader for the Jets.
It is unclear whether Brown will slide instead of Becton on the right tackle spot or whether he lines up in his natural position as a left tackle. In case the Jets’ head coach Robert Saleh opts for the latter, the last year’s starter on LT George Fant will move to the right side.
Aside from the Seahawks, Duane Brown also played with the Houston Texans, where he spent the first 10 years of his pro career. He has 203 career starts in NFL and has been a Pro Bowler five times alongside three All-Pro nods.
