NFL trade rumors: New York Jets predicted to re-sign $15.885 million star to bolster rotation ahead of offseason

The New York Jets and Alijah Vera-Tucker appear headed toward a practical solution for 2026. A one-year, incentive-based contract would allow the team to manage risk while giving the offensive lineman a chance to prove he can stay healthy.The idea works for both sides. The Jets would keep a capable interior starter without committing future cap space, and Vera-Tucker would get a clean opportunity to rebuild his value before returning to free agency in 2027.

Free agency arrives with upside and concern

Alijah Vera-Tucker entered free agency after playing on his fully guaranteed fifth-year option in 2025, which counted about $15.3 million against the cap. He turns 27 during the 2026 offseason and still carries the profile of a former first-round pick who has produced at guard and filled in at tackle when needed.His injuries are the reason teams are expected to be cautious. Between 2022 and 2025, he suffered season-ending injuries to his triceps and Achilles, followed by a biceps injury before Week 1 that cost him the entire 2025 season. Because of that history, a short contract is viewed as more realistic than the long-term deal once projected for him.

What the contract could look like

The expected structure reflects both his talent and the risk attached to it: • Length: One year, possibly with void years for cap management.

• Base value: Starter-level pay, but below the $17-20 million range tied to top guards. • Guarantees: Most or all of the base salary likely guaranteed at signing, with little committed beyond 2026. • Incentives: Bonuses tied to playing time and performance that could raise the total value if he stays on the field. • Role: A steady interior position rather than moving between guard and tackle.

Why the New York Jets would bring him back

The New York Jets have built a young offensive line with Olu Fashanu at left tackle, Armand Membou on the right side, and Joe Tippmann inside.

Josh Myers has also been retained, giving the group talent but limited experience. Adding a reliable guard would help stabilize the unit.When healthy, Vera-Tucker has graded well, including an overall mark in the high-70s during his last full season and a pass-blocking grade that ranked among the top guards. That type of production can improve both pass protection and the running game.A short deal also keeps the team flexible. If injuries continue, the Jets are not tied to future guarantees.

If he plays well, they benefit from strong guard play without a long commitment.

Why the deal makes sense for Alijah Vera-Tucker

Staying in New York Jets removes the need to learn a new system. He would have a clear path to starting snaps, which matters for both incentives and future contract value.The timing is important. A healthy 2026 season would send him back to the market at 27 with recent film, putting him in position for the multi-year contract he once seemed likely to secure.

Pros and cons for both sides

New York Jets

Pros • Gain a proven starter without long-term financial risk. • Provide better protection for the quarterback and running game. • Keep continuity with a former first-round pick.Cons • Injury risk remains high. • Younger linemen may lose development snaps. • A strong season could increase his price in 2027.

Alijah Vera-Tucker

Pros • Chance to reset his market in a familiar setting. • Incentives create higher earning potential if he plays a full season. • Strong film could make him one of the top interior linemen available in 2027.Cons • Limited financial security. • Missing time could reduce his role and earnings.Vera-Tucker profile snapshot (through 2025)

New York Jets offensive context

• By 2025, the Jets had built around a young line featuring Olu Fashanu, Armand Membou, and Joe Tippmann. • Team offensive production showed a group still searching for consistency, which increases the value of steady guard play.Also read: NFL trade rumors: New York Giants linked to $97.5 million Ravens superstar as Baltimore weighs defensive changes to bolster roster

Who benefits most?

The Jets would gain a starting guard at a manageable cost without long-term risk. The downside is limited to one season, while the upside is stability on the interior line.For Vera-Tucker, the risk is short-term security. The reward is larger. If he stays healthy, the 2026 season could lead directly to the long-term contract his ability has long suggested.