The New York Jets quietly made one of the best value moves in free agency by signing veteran offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor to a one-year contract worth $1.3 million. While the deal didn’t attract widespread attention, it represents a major bargain given Okorafor’s experience and previous performance in the NFL.
At 27 years old, Okorafor brings significant experience to the Jets’ offensive line. Over his seven-year NFL career, he has played in 78 games and started 60 of them. Although his most recent season raised questions—appearing in just 12 snaps for the New England Patriots before being placed on the Exempt/Left Squad list—his history as a starter is well-established.
Prior to joining the Patriots, Okorafor was the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting right tackle from 2020 through 2022. During those three seasons, he consistently logged over 1,000 snaps each year. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Okorafor earned an average pass-blocking grade of 63.0 and an overall grade of 61.0 during that span. His run-blocking grade was slightly below average at 56.9, but his ability to stay on the field and perform at a consistent level gave him value as a reliable starter.
The mystery surrounding his abrupt and brief stint with the Patriots likely deterred some teams in free agency. However, the Jets took a calculated risk that could pay off significantly. They’ve acquired a proven offensive tackle at a bargain price, reportedly making him just the 45th highest-paid right tackle in the NFL according to Over The Cap.
With offensive linemen hard to come by, especially those with starting experience, this move strengthens the Jets’ depth and gives them a dependable option at a crucial position. If Okorafor returns to the form he showed in Pittsburgh, the Jets may have secured one of the most under-the-radar yet impactful signings of the offseason.
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