In free agency, he added quarterback David Garrard, running back Mike Goodson, offensive lineman Willie Colon, linebacker Antwan Barnes, and safety Dawan Landry.
With the Jets making the change in quarterback to rookie Geno Smith, the team went 8–8 and finished second in the AFC East in Idzik's first season as general manager.
During the 2014 offseason, Idzik released a number of players, including cornerback Antonio Cromartie, wide receiver Santonio Holmes, and quarterback Mark Sanchez.
To replace Sanchez, Idzik added veteran quarterback Michael Vick, who previously worked in offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg's system with the Philadelphia Eagles.
In addition to Vick, Idzik also signed former Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman Breno Giacomini and former Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker.
As a result, a group of fans raised money to purchase billboards in New Jersey reading "Fire John Idzik" and passed out rally towels with the same message at select home games.