Dec 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) is pressured by Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai (58) in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
The NFL’s legal tampering period is underway, and the New York Jets appear to be making an early move to strengthen their pass rush. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Jets are signing former Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Joseph Ossai to a three-year contract worth $36 million.
In a post on X, Schultz reported the details of the agreement.
“Sources: Joseph Ossai gets $36M over 3 from the #Jets. A major payday.” – Jordan Schultz
Schultz also noted that the Jets are adding a productive rotational pass rusher who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Bengals.
Ossai recorded 14.5 sacks over four seasons in Cincinnati while showing flashes of high-end pass-rushing ability. Originally a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Texas, Ossai battled injuries early in his career but developed into a consistent part of the Bengals’ defensive front.
For the Jets, the move adds another edge defender to a defensive line that needs help. With the new league year about to begin, teams are allowed to negotiate with impending free agents during the legal tampering period before deals become official.
If finalized when the new league year opens, Ossai would join a Jets defense that continues to prioritize pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
More moves are expected across the league as the tampering window continues and teams position themselves ahead of the official start of free agency.
What do you think about the Jets signing Joseph Ossai? Join the conversation with other fans in the JetNation Forums. The legal tampering period is just getting started, and Jets fans are already breaking down every move, rumor, and potential signing.