VERIFIED DEAL: The New York Jets have defeated two NFL teams in the race to sign an All-Pro defense,

New York Jets ‘highly motivated’ to sign All-Pro defender, face competition from 2 NFL teams

The New York Jets have been busy this offseason in retooling their offense in building a much better supporting cast around quarterback Aaron Rodgers ahead of the 2024 season. However, one major departure has evidently pushed the Jets to pursue a top defender still available in NFL free agency.

While New York wanted to retain edge rusher Bryce Huff, general manager Joe Douglas and the front office knew that was unlikely to happen given the market for his services. Quickly into NFL free agency, Huff signed a three-year, $51.1 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

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Instead of immediately replacing Huff, New York prioritized its biggest needs. The Jets overhauled their offensive line with free-agency signings and trades, landed backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor and signed wide receiver Mike Williams. With those positions addressed, New York has turned its focus back to the defense.

According to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report, the Jets are “highly motivated” to sign Jadeveon Clowney and the front office has been in constant communication with the pass rusher’s representatives. However, both the Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens remain interested in Clowney.

• Jadeveon Clowney stats (2023): 19 quarterback hits, 9.5 sacks, 9 tackles for loss, 23 pressures

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Clowney, a second-team All-Pro selection in 2016, is coming off one of the best seasons in his NFL career. In 2023 as a starter on the Ravens’ defense, Clowney set a career-high in hurries (51) and ranked 15th among edge rushers in Pro Football Focus’ pass-rush win rate (17.6 percent)

While the Panthers could offer Clowney more money, a return to Baltimore or a deal with the Jets would provide the veteran edge rusher with an opportunity to compete for the Super Bowl. If either the Jets or Ravens add him, it would be a significant addition to  one of the best defenses in football.