The New York Jets enter the offseason facing a major decision, as their most productive player from the 2025 season, star running back Breece Hall, is set to become a free agent. This situation will heavily impact New York’s offseason plans.
Longtime Jets reporter Rich Cimini of ESPN was asked which player’s contract status will shape the Jets’ offseason the most, and his answer was Hall.
“The Jets are committed to the run game, so it makes sense to keep their RB1. The question is, how much are the Jets willing to pay? Hall, entering his age-25 season, would be in high demand across the league, which is why the Jets could utilize the franchise or transition tag on him,” wrote Cimini.
Hall is widely considered one of the best players set to hit free agency this offseason. Matt Bowen of ESPN has the Jets running back ranked as the seventh overall player set to hit free agency in 2026, making Hall the highest-ranked player at the running back position in those rankings. Travis Etienne of the Jacksonville Jaguars is listed as the second-best back at number 18, showing just how highly experts think of the Jets star running back.
Whether Hall remains in New York or finds a new place to call home this offseason is still uncertain, and it is a major question that will deeply impact the Jets’ offensive plans next year once answered.
GettyRB Breece Hall.
What it Means if the Jets and Hall Reunite in 2026?
There is belief that the Jets would like to retain Hall this offseason, considering the franchise could have moved on from him at the trade deadline during the regular season, but chose not to. New York can keep their star running back by signing him to a new contract or by placing the franchise tag on him, which would allow them to retain their star player for next season.
Keeping Hall would allow the Jets to keep their most productive weapon in the run game, as he led the team with 1,065 rushing yards in 2025. He is also one of their top assets in the passing game, ranking third on the Jets with 350 receiving yards this past season, per ESPN.
Because Hall is such a huge factor in both the run game and the passing game, the Jets’ next quarterback would be put in a favorable position. Considering the franchise has a promising offensive line and will have a healthy Garrett Wilson next season, the offense should not look too bad on paper if Hall returns and the team brings in a quarterback capable of playing at an average level.
GettyHall is the top running back set to hit free agency.
How Will the Jets Approach Free Agency if Hall Leaves?
If Hall leaves the Jets, the team will have a major hole to fill on offense, as Hall has been one of the most impactful players on the roster since being drafted in 2022.
The team could look to the rest of the free-agent market to address the running back position. One notable name that has been linked to the Jets as a potential fit is Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams.
Alex Kay of Bleacher Report listed the Jets as an “ideal landing spot” for Williams.
The Cowboys running back had a strong 2025 regular season, totaling 1,201 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, per ESPN.
Williams is projected to be a cheaper option than Hall, which could make him a fit if Hall and the Jets do not reunite.
If Hall departs, the Jets could use the additional cap space to address other needs, such as strengthening the defense.
GettyRB Javonte Williams.
Why Breece Hall’s Decision Will Impact the Jets’ Offseason Plans