Jets Signing Right Tackle: Starter Already on Roster?
Multiple questions surround the New York Jets' offensive tackle situation.
From whether Mekhi Becton re-signs to if Alijah Vera-Tucker will be ready in time for Week 1, there is no shortage of unknown variables concerning Jets' bookends. The bulk of draft analysts assume New York will use the No. 10 overall selection on a franchise tackle to protect 40-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Whether it's through the draft or free agency, the Jets are expected to dedicate significant assets to acquiring at least one offensive tackle this offseason. If general manager Joe Douglas and Co. are able to lock down the left side, the answer at right tackle may already be on the roster.
Rookie Carter Warren manned the Jets' starting right tackle spot for four games in 2023 and held up adequately by multiple accounts.
"I thought he’s done a remarkable job for a rookie," said Jets' head coach Robert Saleh prior to the regular season finale against New England.
After injury delayed his NFL debut, Warren wound up making eight appearances as a fourth-round draft pick out of Pittsburgh. Outside of a few special teams snaps, his first real action came in relief of Mekhi Becton at left tackle in Week 11.
"Again, missed all OTAs with an injury, missed all training camp with an injury. Got to the 53," said Saleh.
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Coming off the bench when Becton suffered a first-quarter ankle injury during a November 19 road game against Buffalo, Warren played 49 snaps as the blindside protector. The Garden State product started on the left side in place of Becton for the first-ever NFL Black Friday Game at MetLife Stadium before flipping to right tackle once the starter returned one week later.
Warren played every snap as the starting right tackle for each of the season's last three games. Should the Jets deem the New Jersey native worthy to start, it would allow for Vera-Tucker to slide in at right guard and strengthen that spot upon his return from injury.
"[Warren] he's still getting better," said Saleh in Week 18. "Obviously, another opportunity to get after this weekend, but his big deal is going to be one, have a healthy offseason and get strong like all these rookies. Find some more strength and come out and compete."
Warren, who starred at New Jersey's Passaic Tech High School, made 39 starts for Pitt prior to being selected by the Jets with the No. 120 overall draft pick in 2023.
