John Simpson faces uncertain Jets future as team eyes Chargers guard Zion Johnson
The New York Jets are preparing for a potential shakeup at left guard this offseason, with john simpson and Alijah Vera-Tucker set to test free agency and the team weighing alternatives. Jets-linked chatter has pointed to Los Angeles Chargers guard Zion Johnson as a possible replacement option if New York cannot retain its current starters.
John Simpson and Alijah Vera-Tucker near free agency decision point
New York has one open spot along its offensive line, with four starters described as set: Olu Fashanu, Armand Membou, Josh Myers, and Joe Tippmann. The remaining vacancy sits between Fashanu and Myers, and it could widen if the Jets cannot keep either john simpson or Vera-Tucker once they reach the open market.
With both guards headed toward free agency, the Jets face the possibility of needing a new starter at left guard, and potentially more movement across the interior line. One report framed Zion Johnson as a Plan B option if New York gets outbid for Vera-Tucker, underscoring how the Jets’ planning extends beyond re-signing their own players.
Connor Hughes and Zack Rosenblatt float Zion Johnson as Jets option
On SNY’s Jets Final Drive, Jets insiders Connor Hughes and Zack Rosenblatt discussed names circulating ahead of free agency and mentioned Chargers guard Zion Johnson as a potential left guard replacement. Rosenblatt described Johnson as a “flawed” player, while also suggesting the current guard market could push his contract as high as $20 million in average annual value.
One estimate contrasted that potential ceiling with a separate projection from Spotrac, which listed Johnson for a three-year, $33. 8 million deal. The gap between those figures highlights the uncertainty around Johnson’s pricing, a key factor for a Jets front office trying to keep its offensive line intact while addressing the lone unsettled starting spot.
Tyler Biadasz signing and Jim Harbaugh factor shape Chargers outlook
For the Chargers, a separate report tied Johnson’s outlook to a push to remake the interior offensive line following the signing of free agent center Tyler Biadasz. That move was framed as a signal that general manager Joe Hortiz is serious about reshaping the unit, creating added pressure on Johnson, a former first-round pick and four-year starter who may not return to Los Angeles.
Johnson’s market has also been portrayed as strong, with one report stating he is at the top of the Jets’ wish list. The same discussion cited concerns around New York’s guard situation, describing a regression for left guard john simpson and noting Vera-Tucker has suffered three major injuries in the last four seasons, circumstances that could heighten New York’s interest in outside options.
Next steps hinge on the start of free agency, with the Jets positioned to decide whether they can retain john simpson and Vera-Tucker or pivot to alternatives such as Zion Johnson if the market escalates beyond their comfort level.
