The Jets added some flexibility to their offensive line Monday, announcing that they signed former Viking Tom Compton.
A seven-year veteran, Compton gives the Jets a player that can move all over the line with plenty of starting experience. A sixth-round pick of Washington’s in 2012, the 29-year old has played both guard positions, as well as right tackle.
Compton spent four years in D.C. before splitting the last three seasons with the Falcons, Bears and Vikings. He started a career-high 14 games last year for Minnesota, playing mostly left guard. He’s got 85 games and 29 starts for his career.
Compton doesn’t appear to have a starting job on the Jets’ offensive line. New York just traded for left guard Kelechi Osemel and Brian Winters is the starter at right guard. Brandon Shell, meanwhile, has the edge when it comes to the right tackle position. That said, the 6-foot-6, 315-pound Compton gives the Jets a battle-tested veteran who can slide into multiple positions as needed.
At this point, the Jets look to be in decent shape at every offensive line position except for the one down the middle. New York has yet to solidify things at center, only re-signing career backup Jonotthan Harrison. Whether it be through the draft or free agency, that’s a spot Gang Green needs to lock up now that other parts of the line have been addressed.
