The New York Jets are expected to be major players in NFL free agency as they attempt to rebuild one of the league’s weakest rosters ahead of the 2026 season.
Armed with multiple high draft picks and among the most available salary cap space in the NFL, the Jets are positioned to make significant upgrades this offseason. While the quarterback position remains the team’s biggest concern, improving the roster around that spot will be a top priority for New York’s front office.
FOX Sports analyst Greg Auman recently identified Detroit Lions edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad as a potential free-agent target for the Jets. Auman ranked Muhammad No. 58 overall on his list of the Top 100 NFL free agents and suggested New York could be a strong landing spot.
“Muhammad, 30, had the most sacks of any impending free agent in 2025 with 11, all off the bench as a productive rotational player in Detroit,” Auman wrote. “He had six sacks for the Colts in 2021 but has otherwise moved around the league. Could he be a double-digit sack guy in another scheme? If he doesn’t return to Detroit, could he land with Aaron Glenn and the Jets, who have much more cap space to pay him $7–8 million per year?”
The Jets are expected to prioritize upgrading their pass rush in free agency, making Muhammad a logical target. Although he was not a focal point of the Lions’ defense, his production suggests he could play a meaningful role for a team in need of edge rusher depth.
Muhammad recorded a career-high 11 sacks last season, proving he can still be an effective pass rusher when given consistent opportunities. A potential reunion with Jets defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn could allow him to step into a larger role and increase his snap count.
For New York, signing Muhammad would bring veteran experience, reliable edge pressure, and leadership to a young defensive unit. If the Jets are serious about accelerating their rebuild, adding a proven pass rusher like Muhammad could be a key move in their 2026 offseason strategy.




