Jets sign ex-Seahawks DT Quinton Jefferson
After losing Sheldon Rankins and Nathan Shepherd this offseason, the Jets have finally filled their void at defensive tackle.
On Thursday, Gang Green announced it signed veteran defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson. Terms of the contract weren’t disclosed.
As a member of the Seahawks last year, Jefferson played in all 17 games as he registered 29 tackles, a career-high 5.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits. He was initially drafted by Seattle out of Maryland in 2016. However, Jefferson has also spent time with the Rams (2017), Bills (2020) and the Raiders (2021), along with his five seasons with the Seahawks.
Seattle released Jefferson last month, before the start of the new league year, saving $4.485 million against the salary cap.
The defensive tackle spot alongside Quinnen Williams has been a significant need for the Jets this offseason. Rankins, who played in 15 games for the team, signed a one-year, $9.7 million contract with the Texans. Shepherd, the former backup defensive tackle, signed a three-year, $15 million deal with the Saints.
The Jets targeted both Fletcher Cox and Calais Campbell in free agency. However, Cox re-signed with the Eagles and Campbell signed a one-year contract with the Falcons.
Jefferson is the second defensive lineman the Jets signed this offseason. Solomon Thomas re-signed with the team last month.
