Analysis of Jets signing OT Morgan Moses
The Jets upgraded their offensive line depth in a big way Friday afternoon, inking veteran offensive tackle Morgan Moses to a one-year deal.
Moses was released by the Washington Football Team on May 20 after seven seasons with the organization. A former third-round pick out of the University of Virginia and a former USA Today High School All-American, Moses appeared in 104 games with Washington, starting 97 at right tackle. He had started 96 consecutive games at the position for Washington prior to his release.
Joe Douglas has emphasized bolstering New York’s offensive line this offseason, signing depth piece Dan Feeney in free agency and trading up in the 2021 NFL draft to select Alijah Vera-Tucker, who the Jets think has star potential. Moses is the latest addition to an improved unit and brings exactly what Gang Green is looking for both on and off the field.
The one area of the Jets’ offensive line depth that was lacking before Moses signed was at tackle. Chuma Edoga has underwhelmed in his first two seasons with the team and while Conor McDermott is a decent enough backup, he is probably better-suited playing on the inside if he is asked to take the field in a pinch. Moses is an established, starting-caliber talent who could step in without missing a beat in the event of an injury.
That is crucial for New York moving forward, as there are concerns about Mekhi Becton’s ability to stay healthy as he looks to manage his weight. Moses could not only help the Jets by filling in for Becton at left tackle if needed, but also as a much-needed mentor to the rising star.
Becton is doing what he can to make sure his weight does not lead to future injuries, but having a little guidance along the way could not hurt the Louisville product. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Moses is a mammoth presence himself. He has never gotten to the 370-380-pound range like Becton has, but it is safe to assume he knows a thing about maintaining a proper playing weight considering his career has played out this long.
Even with Vera-Tucker’s sky-high ceiling, Moses could potentially go down as the most impactful offensive lineman the Jets acquired this offseason — at least from an instant impact standpoint.
If Becton or George Fant goes down — or Fant loses his starting job — Moses gives the Jets an on-the-spot solution they can rely on. If neither player succumbs to injury in 2021, Moses is in the building to take Becton under his wing and provide elite depth.
In other words, landing the 30-year-old is a win-win for New York.
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New York Jets' projected depth chart following minicamp
