Jets Let Two Depth Pieces Walk

Guard Nate Herbig signs elsewhere while receiver Jeff Smith was not tendered

The New York Jets' depth has gotten thinner at the offensive guard position after free agent Nate Herbig reportedly agreed to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Herbig will receive a two-year contract worth $8 million from the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The fifth-year pro, who played his first three NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, stepped up to solidify the right guard spot in his first year with the Jets. Herbig played 11 games for an injury-ravaged Jets offensive line in 2022.

The #Steelers have agreed to terms with G Nate Herbig on a two-year deal worth $8 million with $4 million guaranteed, source says. Pittsburgh assistant GM Andy Weidl was in Philly when Herbig was with the #Eagles and believes in him as a starter.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 14, 2023

The 6-foot-4 Herbig, who was claimed off waivers by the Jets last May, helped ease the in-season loss of Alijah Vera-Tucker to injury.

Depth wide receiver Jeff Smith is another member of the 2022 Jets who will not return to Gang Green.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that the Jets have chosen not to tender a contract offer to the restricted free agent receiver. As a result, he is now free to sign with any team.

Smith, who originally signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2019, saw action in 11 games last season. He made eight receptions for 134 yards, but appeared mostly on special teams.

He played in 36 games during his Jets’ tenure, totaling 34 receptions.

Smith used his personal Twitter account to thank the Jets and their fans on Tuesday.

Preciate you NY! You gave me a chance to feed my family , forever Grateful! Love 🙏🏾

— Jeff Smith II (@jsmoothiiee) March 14, 2023

The NFL's two-day free agent negotiating window opened on March 13, but trades and signings only become official when the NFL calendar resets at 4:00 pm ET on March 15.

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