It’s been a long time since the New York Jets were in the playoff discussion. They spent a large part of the past decade selecting in the top 10 of the NFL Draft and trying to find a franchise quarterback.

It took them nearly all decade, but the team is hoping they found one in Sam Darnold, but he’s had his ups and downs throughout his two year career.

With the departure of Tom Brady from the division, the door is wide open for the Jets to take the mantle. They’ll have to fight off the surging Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins, but after putting together a stellar offseason, general manager Joe Douglas has the Jets on the right path.

The offensive line was the clear weak point of the team last season, so Douglas invested the majority of his assets into addressing this issue. He signed four offensive lineman to multi-year deals, all of whom should compete for a starting spot. The selection of Mekhi Becton with the 11th overall pick in this year’s draft will also play a pivotal role in this lines’ reshaping, as he figures to hold down the left tackle spot for the next decade if all goes according to plan.

Getting the offensive line right was goal number one, and on paper Douglas has done a great job at achieving that goal.

The restructured front should be able to open up sufficient holes for running back Le’Veon Bell, who was once considered arguably the best back in football. Watch for him to get back on track this season.

Sam Darnold should benefit from the new big guys in front of him as well. The Jets allowed 52 sacks last season, fourth most in the league.