The New York Jets have a new front office and coaching staff. Because of that, changes in leadership are to be expected.
With Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams, and many other starters leaving for greener pastures, the Jets have also said goodbye to some quality players but better leaders. That's what happened to former defensive tackle Solomon Thomas.
Thomas signed a two-year free agent deal with the Dallas Cowboys Tuesday evening. The former San Francisco 49ers third overall pick signed the deal worth over $8 million to help the Cowboys' poor rushing defense.
While Thomas' career hasn't been anywhere close to what was expected of him as a top-five pick, he has been a consummate leader and professional for the organization over the last few years.
Just last season, he was New York's Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee.
"Solomon's commitment to giving back and serving others motivates everyone around him to pursue positive change, on and off the field," said Jets President Hymie Elhai. "The significant impact he has made on the Jets organization and the greater community inspires important conversations about mental health awareness. Solomon's efforts to prioritize mental health will continue to create a lasting impact on young athletes as they advance in their future and careers."
Losing Thomas may not be so bad on the field as the Jets can locate defensive tackles that better fit the scheme they want to run.
But it's truly hard to replace a leader like this at this point with that new regime running things.
