The New York Jets are heading into this offseason filled with multiple roster decisions, and one of the most complicated is with Alijah Vera-Tucker.
On paper, bringing him back makes sense. When healthy, Vera-Tucker has looked like one of the Jets’ better offensive linemen, but the injuries are something to consider. The problem, of course, is availability, something that the Jets might not want to deal with anymore.
Still, at just 26 years old, there’s a strong argument that his best football could be ahead of him if he can stay on the field.
That’s why many think the Jets will make a legitimate push to retain him this offseason. However, according to SNY’s Lucas Hutcherson, a reunion may not be in the works for both sides.
“Vera-Tucker is a talented player who has been desperately unlucky so far in his career but he’s still only 26 and could yet live up to his potential. On that basis, you can expect the Jets to try to bring him back this year, and they, in theory, have the resources to match any offer, within reason.
“Unfortunately for the Jets, they may not get that chance. Even though Vera-Tucker bears no ill will toward the Jets, he doesn’t owe them a hometown discount either, nor is he honor-bound to accept their best offer. Provided there are other teams willing to offer him a similar contract, the allure of a fresh start and the opportunity to play for a team who is closer to playoff contention is likely to be too great and Vera-Tucker seems destined to depart,” he wrote.
Players getting to free agency have all the right in the world to get the biggest deal they can, so he could be looking for that. All it takes is one team believing it can finally unlock his full potential and him staying healthy for him to be a nice piece.
From the Jets’ side, the situation is far from ideal, especially if they bring in another quarterback, which is all but guaranteed.
At some point, though, both sides may simply be ready to move on, even if they could benefit each other.