NFL team reinstates kicker Nick Folk, who played a significant role in their recent playoff campaign, as part of a wave of offensive signings
New York Jets Embrace Youth, Athleticism, and Running Game for 2025 Rebuild
The New York Jets are gearing up for a fresh start in the 2025 season, with a strategic focus on rebuilding and revitalizing the team. After a disappointing 5-12 season in 2024, the Jets aim to get younger, improve depth, and enhance their offensive line and defense under new head coach Aaron Glenn and General Manager Darren Mougey.
A key component of this strategy is the commitment to a dynamic, run-heavy offense that leverages the mobility of quarterback Justin Fields. The team has maintained top skill players like Garrett Wilson, while building a physical, ground-based scheme facilitated by the offensive line.
One of the most significant signings in this regard is that of Justin Fields, a mobile quarterback known for his rushing upside. The Jets believe that his skills will be a perfect fit for their new offensive approach.
Another important aspect of the Jets' strategy is the improvement of their offensive line. With rookie right tackle Armon Minbo joining an already solid line, the Jets expect to see improvements in both rushing lanes and pass protection, which is critical for Fields' style.
On the defensive side, the Jets face challenges replacing veteran defenders but maintain key defensive players like Quinnen Williams with more stable roles under Glenn's rotation approach. The defense stood out during the second day of pads at training camp, according to Coach Glenn.
To add depth and stability, the Jets have also signed veterans Nick Folk, Liam Fornadel, and Lawrance Toafili. Nick Folk, a veteran kicker, provides reliability in scoring opportunities, an important facet for a rebuilding team. However, specific analysis of Liam Fornadel and Lawrance Toafili is limited in current sources.
Lawrance Toafili, who signed as a tryout player for the Jets' rookie minicamp, spent five seasons at Florida State University. Liam Fornadel's last NFL stint was with the New England Patriots' practice squad in 2024, but he was released in December.
The Jets believe these signings can help turn the team into a winning club, as Head Coach Aaron Glenn stated. The team has not made the playoffs since 2010, and Glenn is determined to change that.
In corresponding moves, the Jets waived kicker Caden Davis and center Gus Hartwig. The team's training camp practices are seen as crucial for building the competitive edge and physicality Glenn is aiming to create.
Coach Glenn wants to create a competitive environment for everyone, not just the players or coaches, to build an environment of competition. This competitive edge is being instilled throughout the Jets' organization, including the assistant coaches.
Nick Folk, aged 42, has a history of making 82.2% of his field goal attempts and a 99% extra-point completion rate with the Jets. Folk was part of the 2010 Jets' run to the AFC Championship Game.
Coach Glenn spoke on the recent Midtown mass shooting near the NFL headquarters, expressing sympathy for the affected families. He acknowledged that it's challenging to stay focused on football matters after hearing about such tragedies.
In conclusion, the Jets are embracing a strategic approach to rebuilding, focusing on a running-based offense keyed on Justin Fields and a defensive rotation stabilized by coaching changes. Nick Folk’s signing adds veteran kicking stability, while Liam Fornadel and Lawrance Toafili contribute to depth in less publicized roles aligned with the broader youth and depth strategy. The team's success in the 2025 season will depend on their ability to execute this strategy effectively.
The New York Jets' rebuilding strategy in 2025 emphasizes a dynamic offense, with a focus on running plays led by quarterback Justin Fields. In preparation for this approach, the team has signed veteran kicker Nick Folk for reliable scoring opportunities.
Seeking to enrich their offensive capabilities further, the Jets also added undrafted rookie Lawrance Toafili to their roster, who brings his college experience from Florida State University.
