Dan Feeney isn’t the best linemen on the market, but he provides the Jets with another level of depth and versatility along the offensive line.
Feeney can play both center and guard and will likely be a backup for both positions in 2021. The former third-rounder started 57 games for the Chargers at left guard and center, including every game for the past three seasons and 16 games at center this past season.
To say Feeney was ineffective in 2020 would be an understatement. He allowed 24 hurries and 33 pressures this past season – the most by any center in the NFL, according to Warren Sharp. Feeney gave up four sacks and committed two penalties, as well. To put into perspective how bad Feeney was last year, his 48.2 Pro Football Focus grade ranked 12 spots worse than the Jets’ Connor McGovern and was second-last among centers.
This all points to Feeney likely switching back to guard as a backup for either Alex Lewis or whomever the starter is next season. Feeney didn’t prove valuable enough to take a starting job on a Jets offensive line in woeful need of an upgrade. It’s a depth signing, for sure, and one Douglas likely hopes will only be needed in an emergency.
