The Jets put an emphasis on rebuilding their offensive line this offseason, adding a handful of new starters and considerable depth that last year’s team lacked.
They only added one lineman through undrafted free agency, though: University of Washington tackle Jared Hilbers. Standing at 6-foot-7, 305 pounds, Hilbers has the athleticism to play either tackle position and is a sound run blocker.
With that said, let’s get to know Hilbers a bit better. Here are four things to know about the undrafted free agent out of Washington.
Basketball Background
Jared Hilbers is yet another Jets offensive lineman with a basketball background. He was a star high school basketball player in Oregon before deciding to join his school’s football team during his junior year.
Just like New York’s acquisition of George Fant, who played college basketball at Western Kentucky, Hilbers has the type of athleticism and versatility that Joe Douglas is looking for in his offensive linemen.
Combine Rejection
Despite being a standout left tackle at the Shrine Bowl, Jared Hilbers wasn’t invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Hilbers had the criteria to be invited but was subsequently left off the list of participants.
The combine is allowed a maximum of 335 participants. All 32 NFL teams are polled regarding draft-eligible prospects to make sure that most, if not all, combine invitees will be among those drafted. It’s likely that not enough teams viewed Hilbers as a draft-eligible prospect.
Big Money
As the only offensive lineman in the Jets’ undrafted free agent class, Jared Hilbers came away with a hefty guarantee.
Hilbers received a $62,000 guarantee in his undrafted free agent contract, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini. For comparison’s sake, Kyle Phillips, who made an impact as a rotational defensive end in 2019, only received a guarantee of $30,000, per Cimini.
Clearly, the Jets thought Hilbers was worth the investment.
Versatility
Jared Hilbers played on both sides of the line while at the University of Washington.
Hilbers took over the left tackle position when Trey Adams — now a member of the Buffalo Bills — was sidelined due to a back injury. He transitioned over to the right side to take over for Kaleb McGary, who was drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
Hilbers’ experience as a swing tackle bodes well for his chances of making the roster as a depth piece behind Mekhi Becton, George Fant and Chuma Edoga.
