Jets add WR Tyler Johnson, CB Kris Boyd in free agency
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tyler Johnson warms up prior to an NFL game against the New England Patriots on Nov. 17, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. Credit: AP/Steven Senne
The Jets finally made a move for a wide receiver, reaching an agreement on a one-year deal with former Ram Tyler Johnson on Saturday morning.
They also came to terms with ex-Texans cornerback and core special teams player Kris Boyd. He gained some notoriety in the playoffs for shoving Houston’s special teams coach Frank Ross after committing a penalty on the opening kickoff against Kansas City.
Johnson, 26, is another unheralded young player with upside that the Jets have added during free agency. The Jets are Johnson’s fourth NFL team in five seasons.
He began his career with Tampa Bay, spent some time with Houston and was a Ram the past two seasons. He caught 26 passes for 291 yards and a touchdown last year. Johnson has 76 receptions for 828 yards and four touchdowns in 49 games.
The Jets’ wide receiver room needs upgrades and bodies. It currently consists of Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, Xavier Gipson and Malachi Corley.
The expectation has been that Lazard would be released. Considering the status of the receiver room, it’s possible that Lazard could return if he’s willing to restructure his contract. He’s due $13.2 million this season, but it’s not guaranteed. No trades involving Lazard have materialized to this point.
Boyd also has bounced around. He’s played for the Vikings, Cardinals and Texans. Most of Boyd’s time has been as a gunner on special teams.
He played just 48 defensive snaps in Houston last year and 365 on special teams. Boyd has 105 tackles in 81 career games, five of them starts.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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