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[New York Jets]

Scouting Jets rookie wide receiver Arian Smith

Photo by Steve Limentani/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Taking a look at the Jets rookie wide receiver

The Jets drafted former Georgia wide receiver Arian Smith in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL draft. Today we break Smith down in detail.

The 23-year old Smith is listed at 6’0” and 179 pounds. He caught 68 passes for 1,356 yards and 10 touchdowns in five years with the Georgia Bulldogs. Having entered the 2024 season with just 20 career catches he had a breakout season last year and led the team in receiving yards.

Background

Smith was a four-star high school recruit and track and field sensation who headed to Georgia in 2019 but redshirted his first season.

Over the next three seasons, he didn’t play much, catching just 12 passes in 19 games. However, he showed big play capabilities with four touchdowns and an average of 32.2 yards per catch. He also broke out in the playoffs as he had 129 yards and a touchdown in the Peach Bowl at the end of the 2022 season.

In 2023, he made the first two starts of his career but still didn’t produce much as he had eight catches for 153 yards and two scores in an offense that also featured Ladd McConkey and Brock Bowers.

However, he was featured much more in 2024 and had a breakout season with three 100-yard games. He ended up with a team-high 817 yards on 48 receptions, with four touchdowns.

Smith was invited to the Senior Bowl and the NFL scouting combine but was considered a probable late round pick. The Jets selected him in the fourth round with the 110th overall pick.

Let’s move on to some more in-depth analysis of what Smith brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.

Measurables/Athleticism

Smith doesn’t have particularly good size or a big catch radius and he has small hands. He could probably do with adding some bulk to his frame.

One thing that can’t be questioned is his speed. His 40-yard dash at the combine was a 4.36 and it speaks volumes that this was regarded by some as disappointing. As a decorated track athlete, he once ran 10.1 in the 100 meters and competed in college until 2023 before giving it up to focus on football. The speed and burst shows up on film too.

At the combine, Smith didn’t participate in the bench press but posted excellent explosiveness and agility numbers.

Usage

Smith has primarily played on the outside, as he was in the slot less than 25 percent of the time in his career. He did catch 11 passes from the slot last season, but averaged just 10 yards per catch - less than half what he did on the outside.

In addition to his pass catching, Smith has also been used to good effect on jet sweeps and end arounds. He carried eight times for 93 yards in college.

In high school, he also played as a quarterback, running back and defensive back.

Deep threat

Smith was a big downfield threat in college. As noted, he averaged over 30 yards per catch in his first three seasons and still averaged over 19 per catch in his fourth and fifth seasons as his role increased.

He can get behind the defense with pure speed, especially when he gets a clean release. Ultimately, his deep ball numbers probably should have been better than they were had he not had to constantly slow up to catch underthrown deep balls.

Smith’s speed can cause genuine panic in defensive players whether they are playing up on him at the line or in off coverage.

He isn’t just a downfield threat on go routes, because he can also use his speed to get behind the defense on deep over routes.

Hands

As you’ve probably heard, the major concern with Smith is how unreliable his hands are. He dropped 10 passes last season on 72 targets.

If anything, those drop numbers are not that bad. If he just caught a few more of those, then he’d have a 10 percent drop rate, which is higher than you’d like, but not a major concern. He also had just three drops in 40 targets prior to last season.

Let’s be clear about this, though. Those numbers undersell how shaky his hands are. He rarely looks comfortable catching the ball, often bobbling or body-catching it, and had a number of plays that weren’t counted as drops but could still be characterized as catchable. In addition, a lot of the drops he had were really bad, either going right through or bouncing off his hands.

While a lot of receivers with high drop counts could put this down to focus or confidence, Smith’s bigger issue is a technical one. He is ineffective at scooping up low catches and keeps his hands too far apart when reaching beyond his frame. That’s arguably good news because if he gets some good coaching and works as hard at perfecting this aspect as he has at other parts of his game, then it’s almost certainly fixable. Perhaps he’ll never be a natural hands catcher, but the Jets will be hopeful he can at least become reliable enough to mitigate the mistakes as much as possible.

There are a few positive signs to lean on. First of all, even with all the drops, Smith had a solid 67 percent catch rate last year. That’s especially impressive for someone who is a downfield threat so are getting more low percentage targets. (It’s also fair to note that approximately one-third of his targets were screen passes though).

In addition, he also showed that he’s been working on his consistency during the pre-draft process. At the scouting combine, his gauntlet drill was flawless, with a hands catch on every throw. He also reportedly caught the ball well all week at the Senior Bowl.

Routes

A further concern could be that Smith is just a one-trick pony and it’s fair to note that a high proportion of his production came on either deep balls or short passes rather than on a wide variety of different routes. However, some of the things he has shown as a route runner are encouraging.

You can tell he’s been working hard on his technique from his smooth footwork as he releases off the line and how he sets up his breaks.

His speed is such a weapon that it opens up a lot of other ways from him to get open. Nobody can stay with him on a crossing route and backpedaling defensive players have to give him extra room, which he has started to take advantage of by becoming more adept at breaking down or changing direction.

Red zone

You couldn’t really consider Smith as a red zone threat despite him scoring 10 touchdowns on his 68 career catches. That’s because those 10 touchdowns averaged 36.5 yards in length.

He did have three red zone touchdowns, though, with one at the back of the end zone and two on tunnel screens. Coincidentally, all three came from the 12-yard line.

He was also targeted unsuccessfully in the red zone multiple times.

After the catch

With his incredible speed, Smith is obviously a threat to turn any play into a huge gain. He’s also been a big weapon on short passes.

Smith tends to run away from defenders rather than breaking tackles, but can throw a juke move here and there, and often creates yards after contact at the end of a run purely by having built up so much momentum.

He fumbled once during his career, but immediately fell on it himself.

Blocking

Blocking is an underrated part of Smith’s game and an area where he stands out from time to time. His run blocking grades on analysis sites such as Pro Football Focus have been average to good.

His effort in this area really stands out, as he hustles to his spot, battles for leverage and works his angles well. His discipline was also good as he didn’t have any holding penalties in his career.

Physicality

Although he’s clearly at his best in space Smith shows adequate physicality when carrying the ball, blocking and running routes.

One area where he could be better is on contested catches, although he did come down with a couple in traffic last season.

Last season, Smith was called for offensive pass interference three times which is perhaps a sign that he was being more competitive at the catch-point, although he obviously got flagged for pushing off. Two of these penalties negated 40-yard catches.

Special Teams

Smith saw action as a primary punt gunner over the past two seasons and that unit had good results as they only gave up 23 yards in 28 games. However, much of that was a product of the fact that the Bulldogs offense was efficient so they didn’t punt much.

Although he obviously did a solid job, Smith was only credited with one tackle, on this play.

In addition to being a punt gunner, Smith also played as a vice on the punt return unit. He missed one tackle and had a special teams penalty in 2023 but he has no return game experience.

Instincts and Intelligence

Smith has shown some ability to find the soft spots in coverage or improvise and find an open area when a play gets extended.

Perhaps the most obvious place where his instincts shine are as a ball carrier, though, as he shows natural vision and patience.

Smith also showed good awareness on two plays where his teammates fumbled and he came out of nowhere to recover it and save the possession.

However, there was one play where he ran a slant instead of stopping for a screen pass, leading to an interception.

Smith also had two false starts last season.

Attitude

Smith is an even-keeled character who describes himself as tough, both physically and mentally. He is constantly working hard to improve with Georgia’s offensive coordinator Mike Bobo having described him as the hardest worker on the team.

He is a film junkie, who has noted that watching film on DeSean Jackson helped him get better at tracking deep balls and watching Jerry Rice helped him learn how to make his route breaks more effectively.

His on-field discipline was solid too, with just five offensive penalties in his career. All were in 2024, though.

Injuries

Injuries are a big part of the reason why Smith didn’t see the field much until 2024. At the start of his career, he broke his wrist landing in the long jump pit before ever playing in a game.

He suffered a torn meniscus and broken right fibula in 2021 and then, ahead of the 2022 season, suffered a high ankle sprain in preseason and missed the first four games. He then had an ankle fracture at the end of the year that required offseason surgery.

He has also been listed with toe and hip injuries.

Scheme Fit

The conclusion many people will jump to is that Smith is being brought in as a deep threat specialist, but having watched how he generated his production last season, it seems just as likely they see a multi-faceted role as being the best way to unlock his potential.

Smith was a teammate of current Jets edge defender Jermaine Johnson at Georgia in 2021.

Conclusions

A simplistic view of Smith’s potential, and the basis of the ongoing debate among Jets fans so far would be to weigh up the obvious positives he brings in terms of his speed against the negative factor of his unreliable hands. Both are as advertised, but there’s much more to this player.

There are two other areas of concern: His injury history and his late breakout. However, given that the injury history was a major factor in him not breaking out sooner, these two issues are somewhat intertwined.

Smith is 23 and, until the start of last season, had just 20 catches in his career. However, any suggestion that this was merely a case of a 22-year old beating up on guys barely out of high school can be tempered by the fact that he was productive against the bigger teams with 100-yard games against Ohio State and Alabama and 11 catches in two games against Texas.

There are also a lot of positives other than his speed to offset against these concerns. His route running is better than advertised, he creates good yardage with the ball in his hands and he has an excellent attitude that produced results last year as he showed improvements in a number of areas.

Watching Smith’s film is reminiscent of former Jets receiver Robbie Chosen (formerly Robbie Anderson). Throughout his entire career, teammates and some analysts suggested that Anderson was capable of doing more than just running go routes and having bad quarterbacks throw him low percentage downfield passes. Sure enough, as soon as he went to Carolina and they featured him in the short-intermediate game as well, he broke out with a 100+ catch season. The Jets may view Smith as someone who could do the same.

In conclusion, it’s a worthwhile gamble and very difficult to project how his career will play out. All outcomes from elite to bust are on the table but there is a lot to like here and you can see why the Jets were impressed with this player’s potential.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ew-york-jets-rookie-wide-receiver-arian-smith

 

[New York Jets]

What’s Next for the Jets? A Deep Dive Into the 2025 Rookie Class and Their Assignments

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Here’s what to expect in year one.

The NFL Draft is in our rearview mirror. Let’s project what we can expect from the Jets rookie class of 2025.

Armand Membou; Projected Role: Starting RT

The most glaring need the Jets had entering the NFL Draft was right tackle. Unlike most of the last decade, the Jets entered the offseason with 80 percent of their offensive line set. The right tackle spot was the one question mark. In picking Membou, the Jets completed their offensive line. More than that, four of the five starters will be 26 or younger entering the season.

Membou is almost certain to immediately fill a starting job. The only way he could fall out of the role would be if he showed an enormous struggle adjusting to the speed of the pro game in training camp.

The selection of Membou has a bit of a multiplier effect. It pushes Chukwuma Okorafor to the bench. It’s difficult to imagine Okorafor handling the starting right tackle job. It isn’t outrageous to think that he might be a decent third tackle, though, which is his new role.

Mason Taylor; Projected Role: TE1

In an ideal world, a somewhat raw talent like Taylor could start off as a second or even third tight end. He could learn by collecting limited low pressure snaps and work towards taking over a starting job in year two.

Because the Jets had zero quality at the position prior to the Draft, Taylor is going to be pressed into a prominent role right off the bat. He’s still a bit of a work in progress so it would be wise to keep expectations in check. If he progresses quickly, we can view it as a pleasant surprise.

The big snap count he will get could help his development speed up if you can live through the early days where he might struggle a bit.

Azareye’h Thomas; Projected Role: CB4 and Developmental Future Starter

With Sauce Gardner manning one outside corner slot and the Jets giving Brandon Stephens decent money to take the other, Thomas doesn’t have a path to starting on day one. That isn’t the worst thing in the world. He is another player who has some development to do. The Jets can work with him on the practice field. He will serve as a backup. I’m sure they picked him 73rd overall because they think he has potential, though.

Arian Smith; Projected Role: Offensive Weapon ™ and Gunner on Punt Coverage

Shortly after the team selected him, the Jets leaked to the media that they selected Smith with a role in mind for him. While the group of wide receivers the Jets have behind Garrett Wilson is underwhelming, there are enough veterans around to likely keep the developing Smith from seeing major playing time. The Jets will likely manufacture touches in space for Smith trying to capitalize on his speed. He will also probably see the occasional vertical route when giving a starter some rest. Smith also received high marks for his work in punt coverage so he could end up carving out a role there.

Malachi Moore: Possible Camp Competitor at S

I wouldn’t be shocked to see Moore get a shot at a starting job in training camp. Andre Cisco is likely locked into one starting role, but Tony Adams’ resume probably won’t guarantee him a starting job. He was the project of the last coaching staff, and his benching was ordered by the team owner last year. Moore’s versatility puts him in the mix for a third safety role in big nickel and dime packages should he not end up starting.

Francisco Mauigoa; Projected Role: Possible LB3

At linebacker the Jets have a good starting duo in Jamien Sherwood and Quincy Williams, but there isn’t much depth. It isn’t that hard to imagine the instinctual Mauigoa carving out a role as the top backup at the position. The Jets’ coaching staff probably likes him enough to give him a shot to earn the role.

Tyler Baron; Projected Role: Rotational DE

Baron strikes me as a prospect with somewhat limited upside. He will likely be in the mix with guys like Micheal Clemons, Braiden McGregor, Eric Watts, and others to get backup snaps behind Will McDonald and Jermaine Johnson.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...o-the-2025-rookie-class-and-their-assignments

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 05/09/25

Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning Gang Green Nation! The New York Jets begin their rookie mini-camp today. Leading into that, the Jets signed five of their seven selections in the 2025 NFL draft, and they released three back of the roster players to free up enough roster spots to welcome their undrafted free agent signings. The signings of five draft picks, including first round pick Armand Membou, signals a clear break from the practices of the Joe Douglas regime. Under Douglas many draft choices would not sign before June, and almost every year at least one pick would still be unsigned in late July, right before training camp begins. It’s not necessarily a high impact kind of change, but it is a refreshing thing to not be concerned whether your prized rookies will show up for the first day of training camp or not.

Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Friday in May:

Eric Allen - Jets Sign Missouri OT Armand Membou to Rookie Contract

Jack Bell - Jets Sign Florida State CB Azareye'h Thomas to Rookie Contract

Caroline Hendershot - Jets Sign Miami LB Francisco Mauigoa to Rookie Contract

Ethan Greenberg - Jets Sign Miami LB Tyler Baron to Rookie Contract

Randy Lange - Jets Release Three First-Year Players

Randy Lange - Inside the Numbers on Jets Draft Picks - Arian Smith, Malachi Moore, Francisco Mauigoa & Tyler Baron

ESPN - Biggest postdraft roster holes for all 32 NFL teams

Connor Hughes - Jets position-by-position breakdown entering rookie minicamp

Nikhil Mehta - Jets Sign First-Round T Armand Membou, Four Other Draftees

Joe Simile - New York Jets Trade With Philadelphia Eagles Landed Steal of the Draft

Adam Schultz - New York Jets QB Tyrod Taylor Announces His Good-News Justin Fields Plan

Billy Heyen - Jets need replacement QB for Justin Fields, says ESPN insider

Nick Wojton - Jets' first-round rookie Armand Membou: 'Whatever they need me to do'

Nick Wojton - Jets' Aaron Glenn brushes aside concerns with Azareye'h Thomas pick:

Glenn Naughton - Jets Release Three Players Ahead of Rookie Camp

Glenn Naughton - Jets Getting Rookie Deals Wrapped up Ahead of Mini-Camp

Mike Luciano - NFL scout sees shades of Hall of Famer in Jets rookie Armand Membou

Mike Luciano - George Pickens whiff could push Jets toward signing ex-rival WR

Mike Luciano - Jets should act fast after Panthers make shocking Jadeveon Clowney decision

Mike Luciano - Steelers might land obvious Jets WR if Aaron Rodgers has his way

Alexander Wilson - Why this move could signal the Jets aren’t confident in their secondary

Alexander Wilson - Jets rookie playmaker has a ‘superpower’ — and he's ready to put it on display

Mike Gianakos - Tyrod Taylor opens up on 'support' role behind Justin Fields

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy the day everybody.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...n-taylor-tyler-baron-arian-smith-tyrod-taylor

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 05/10/25

Thomas Salus-Imagn Images

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

The Jets are in the middle of conducting their annual rookie minicamp. It is a first chance for the rookie class of 2025 to hit the practice field. It also gives the Jets a chance to give a tryout to players seeking a contract.

Let’s just say, this is not exactly the most substantive weekend of media coverage on the NFL calendar.

Teams are in the mode of hyping up their Draft picks. Across the league, you will get plenty of glowing reports of first and second round picks dominating at these minicamps. The people writing these reports never seem to consider how preordained this outcome is. These are early round picks going up against mostly undrafted free agents and tryout players, few of whom will even make an NFL roster this season. What exactly were they expecting?

The exceptions to this, of course, are Armand Membou and Mason Taylor, whose dominance is a clear sign of a Hall of Fame trajectory.

Your daily Jets links are below.

Randy Lange - Jets Top Pick Armand Membou Feeling at Home at Start of Rookie Minicamp

Ethan Greenberg & Eric Allen - Jets Sign 15 Undrafted Free Agents

Ethan Greenberg & Caroline Hendershot - Jets to Host 12 Tryout Players in Rookie Minicamp

NY Jets - On Day 1 of Jets Rookie Minicamp, It’s All About the Work

NY Jets - Jets Announce Rookie Numbers

Rich Cimini - Jets’ Mason Taylor embraces ‘high expectations’ from lineage

Antwan Staley - Jets TE Mason Taylor understands the high expectations because of his family pedigree

Ethan Sears - What Robert Saleh won’t miss about being Jets head coach

Nick Wojton - PFF: What is the Jets’ biggest remaining need post-2025 NFL draft?

Nick Wojton - PFF: What is the Jets’ biggest remaining need post-2025 NFL draft?

Michael Nania - NY Jets reveal rookie jersey numbers: Wait, what’s Mason Taylor’s?

Andy Vasquez - Jets’ Woody Johnson at center of contentious ‘battle for control’ across the pond with Devils twist

Andy Vasquez - How Jets’ Justin Fields has already impressed his new o-line: ‘You can see how determined he is to be great’

Bridget Hyland - After QB’s retirement, Jets sign former college star as camp starts

Nick Faria - NY Jets sign 5 of 7 draft picks from 2025 class

Nick Faria - NY Jets lauded for one major offseason improvement

Nick Faria - Jaguars gift the Jets an intriguing WR2 candidate

Josh Alper - QB Brady Cook, 14 other undrafted free agents sign with Jets

Alexander Wilson - Jets could bolster pass rush with one veteran weapon still freshly on the market

Alexander Wilson.9 million deal - Jets ink new offensive tackle to $31.9 million deal

Alexander Wilson - Jets Roster Shakeup Begins: The first wave of cuts hits ahead of camp

Colin Keane - Jets’ Justin Fields Must Outshine Patriots QB To Make Fans Forget Aaron Rodgers

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Fans Should Be Excited About ‘Steal Of The Draft’

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Officially Signing First-Rounder To $31.9 Million Deal

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Making Three Cuts With Offseason Ramping Up

Dakota Randall - ‘Epic Turd’: Damning George Pickens Intel Proves Jets Aren’t Missing Much

Dakota Randall - Jets Fans Should Feel Encouraged By New Strength-Of-Schedule Rankings

Mike Luciano - Rumored schedule leak has the Jets facing a top NFL defense overseas

Mike Luciano - NY Jets 2025 rookie jersey numbers revealed as Armand Membou ditches No. 79

Mike Luciano - NFL scout sees shades of Hall of Famer in Jets rookie Armand Membou

Jackson Roberts - Jets Urged To Sign ‘Perfect WR2 Candidate’ After $20 Million Jaguars Cut

Tim Capurso -Jets First-Rounder Had Funny Reaction to Seeing His Lucrative Rookie Contract

Zach Presnell - Jets’ $20 Million Star Seemingly Primed For Huge Season

Zach Presnell - Rumored Jets-Steelers Trade Makes No Sense For New York

Zach Presnell - Jets’ Offensive Lineman Have High Praise For Justin Fields

Paul Edsen - Analyst Makes Bold ‘DeSean Jackson’ Prediction About Jets Rookie

Paul Edsen - Bears Helped Bills Screw Jets Twice With NFL Draft Trades

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy the day everybody.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...mbou-mason-taylor-arian-smith-rookie-minicamp

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 5/11/25

Thomas Salus-Imagn Images

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning, Gang Green Nation.

The Jets have completed their rookie minicamp. It was the first chance for rookies and undrafted free agents to hit the practice field. It was also a chance for them and the coaches to speak to the media.

Under the radar, it was a chance for twelve players to try out for the team. Among rookies, we have drafted players and undrafted free agents. There is a third class of players, however. Some rookies don’t get either designation. They do get a chance to try out for NFL teams hoping to eventually land that UDFA designation. I’m not sure what these players can show in a two day minicamp that wasn’t there on a full college career’s worth of film, but the Jets must have at least some passing interest in these guys to invite them in.

Here are your Sunday links.

Antwan Staley - Jets’ Aaron Glenn credits Lions’ Dan Campbell in preparing him to be a head coach

Andy Vasquez - Jets’ Aaron Glenn has one very good reason to believe his new team is buying in

Tom Rock - New Jets coach Aaron Glenn gets five-star reviews from rookies

Al Iannazzone - Giovanni Williams looks to join brothers Quinnen and Quincy on Jets

Eric Allen - What Three Questions Did Aaron Glenn Want Answered at Jets Rookie Minicamp?

Ethan Greenberg - Rookie Minicamp Notebook | Malachi Moore Describes the Differences Between Nick Saban and Aaron Glenn

Michael Nania - Did the New York Jets find a rookie starter in Malachi Moore?

Connor Long - Multiple scouts compare NY Jets’ Membou to future HOFer

Connor Long - The third Williams brother is at NY Jets rookie minicamp

Nick Faria - Mason Taylor embraces playing in Hall-of-Fame shadow with Jets

Nick Faria - 5 things NY Jets fans need to know from Day 1 of rookie minicamp

Nick Faria - Jets’ Arian Smith draws comparison to legendary deep threat

Nick Wojton - Highlights of New York Jets’ 2025 rookie minicamp

Paul Edsen - Jets Rookie Strongly Addresses Awkward Elephant in the Room

Paul Edsen - Jets Urged to Sign 69-Sack, $23 Million Ex-All Pro

Paul Edsen - Jets Give Tryout to Mysterious Brother of All-Pros, Chance at NFL History

Mike Luciano - Jets’ Justin Fields decision looks even better after latest Derek Carr news

Mike Luciano - ESPN joins chorus of Justin Fields haters with Jets roster assessment

Patrick McAvoy - Robert Saleh Sheds Light On Polarizing Stint With Jets

Zach Presnell - Shocking New Suitor May Join Steelers In Aaron Rodgers Sweepstakes

Dakota Randall - Jets Already Change Rookie’s Jersey Number Amid Outrage Over Original

Alexander Wilson - Jets’ brand new offensive piece gets Hall of Fame comparison

Alexander Wilson - Jets may have something brewing with their UDFA quarterback — and toughness is just the start

Alexander Wilson - Jets hoping to strike gold with late round linebacker

Patrick McAvoy - Jets’ Armand Membou Lands ‘Bold’ Comparison To Eagles Legend

Matthew Schmidt - Browns Legend Receives Surprising Shoutout from Jets Rookie

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Have a great Sunday.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/2025/5/11/24427707/new-york-jets-flight-connections-5-11-25

 

[New York Jets]

Jets announce the signings of 15 undrafted free agents

Thomas Salus-Imagn Images

The team will also offer twelve players a tryout.

The Jets have announced the signing of 15 undrafted free agents.

We have signed 15 undrafted free agents.

: https://t.co/2RTlHiMLMv pic.twitter.com/plXYpbjHHF

— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 9, 2025​

Most of these signings were reported in the media in the hours and days following the NFL Draft, but this is official confirmation from the team. Occasionally reporters will miss a signing, or something changes before a contract becomes official.

Few of these players will make the roster. Generally speaking, the Jets keep one or two UDFAs in a typical year. Last year, three made the initial 53 man roster, and that was considered an unusually robust number.

Of course, sometimes a UDFA turns out to be a gem. Through the years, the Jets have found contributors like Snacks Harrison, Robby Anderson, Bryce Huff, and Tony Adams in the likes of undrafted free agents.

The Jets also announced tryout players for their rookie minicamp.

These players face pretty long odds. They need to stand out in a short timeframe to even earn a contract. The Jets don’t have excess space to spare on their roster. They needed to make cuts to make room for the players they drafted. So anybody who earns a contract from this group has really done something to stand out.

The most notable name might be Giovanni Williams not because of his profile as a prospect but because he is the brother of Quinnen and Quincy Williams.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...unce-the-signings-of-15-undrafted-free-agents

 

[New York Jets]

Scouting Jets rookie safety Malachi Moore

Photo by Jason Clark/Getty Images

Taking a look at the Jets rookie safety

The New York Jets drafted former Alabama safety Malachi Moore in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL draft. Today we break Moore down in detail.

The 23-year old Moore is listed at 5’11” and 196 pounds. He was a second-team all-American in 2024. He had 214 tackles, 2.5 sacks and six interceptions in 64 games with the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Background

Moore was a four-star high school recruit who had four interceptions in his final season and earned a scholarship at Alabama, where he won a starting role in his freshman season in 2020.

He was named to the all-SEC freshman team and the all-SEC second team after starting the first 11 games of the year and recording 44 tackles, six passes defensed and three interceptions. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown. However, he missed the postseason due to injury.

In 2021, Moore started nine games, but he was in a rotational role as he finished the season with 17 tackles and one interception.

Ahead of the 2022 season, he was named as a preseason third team all-American by Pro Football Focus, but ended up starting just one game. He had 31 tackles and the first 1.5 sacks of his career.

In 2023, he was a full-time starter and had a productive year with 52 tackles and a career-best five tackles for loss.

2024 was his best season, as he earned second team all-American and first team all-SEC honors by racking up 70 tackles, eight pass breakups, two interceptions and a sack.

Moore was invited to the NFL scouting combine but did not work out due to injury. The Jets traded up to select him with the last pick of the fourth round in April’s draft.

Let’s move on to some more in-depth analysis of what Moore brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.

Measurables/Athleticism

Moore is a little undersized for the safety position with very short arms. In fact, the only safety with shorter arms in combine history to become a starting safety at the NFL level has been Geno Stone.

He ran a solid 4.57 in the 40-yard dash and posted 15 bench press reps at his pro day, but didn’t do the agility drills. His explosiveness numbers were excellent.

Usage

Moore has played in the box, in the slot and as a deep safety, but his role evolved over the course of his career.

In his freshman season, the majority of his reps were in the slot with some in the box and none as a deep safety. However, his final season saw him mostly playing as a deep safety.

Coverage skills

Moore played closer to the line of scrimmage until last season. The move into a deeper role was reflected in fewer targets and vastly improved coverage numbers. He entered the 2024 season having given up a completion on 70 percent of his targets, but reduced that all the way down to 43 percent last year, as he gave up just 11 yards per game.

For his career as a whole, he gave up 10 touchdowns and a lot of big plays, occasionally being overmatched when isolated against a speedy receiver.

However, he looks good in off coverage, with a good ability to latch on in coverage and anticipate route breaks.

As a deep safety he did a solid job of patrolling center field, picking off a few errant passes and doing a solid job of ranging across the field in coverage support.

Ball skills

Moore put up solid on-ball numbers in college with six career interceptions and 25 pass breakups. He displays good range and timing in center field and tracks deep throws well.

Closer to the line of scrimmage, he has good awareness and positional sense and the ability to jump routes and contest throws.

Tackling

Moore is a big hitter with good closing speed and a knack for knocking or stripping the ball loose. He had five forced fumbles in his career.

His tackle efficiency was a minor concern heading into the 2024 season as he had just missed a career-high nine tackles in 2023. However, he showed a dramatic improvement last year, as he was fifth best among power five safeties who played over half the defensive snaps in terms of tackle efficiency.

Run defense

Moore’s lack of size could be detrimental against the run but he shows some willingness to take on blocks and set the edge. His technique and strength when trying to shed blocks could do with some work, but he plays with good discipline.

Despite playing deeper, his production against the run in 2024 was still solid as he had 32 tackles and the same number of stops (nine) as in his freshman year.

Physicality

Despite a lack of size, Moore brings competitiveness and works hard to get ball carriers on the ground when he wraps them up. As noted, he’s a big hitter.

He has played press coverage at times but only had 12 penalties in his career, with only one of his four penalties last season for pass interference and none for illegal contact or defensive holding.

Blitzing

Moore has plenty of experience as a blitzer and was credited with 2.5 sacks and a decent pressure rate during his college career. He brings burst and timing off the edge.

He can also be effective in situations where he is tasked with spying the quarterback to prevent him from escaping the pocket and converting first downs.

Moore also batted two passes down at the line while rushing the quarterback.

Special teams

Moore has plenty of special teams experience with his best season coming in 2022 when he had five special teams tackles.

He has played in kickoff coverage, as a blocker on the kickoff return unit and on the punt protection unit. In addition, he’s both rushed punts and played the vice role on the punt return unit and was on the kick block unit for the past two seasons.

He also had this special teams touchdown on a blocked punt.

Instincts/Intelligence

Moore displays excellent on-field instincts, regularly blowing up plays in the flat by reading his keys or making an immediate reaction.

He was caught out of position on this play, though, leading to a crucial touchdown on fourth down.

The fact he has played multiple defensive roles and positions should serve Moore well in this area and speaks to his scheme familiarity.

Attitude

Moore is an incredibly intense and high energy player and one of the first things that stands out on film is how he gets fired up and flexes after virtually every play he makes.

There’s nothing particularly wrong with that but it’s likely to make him unpopular with opposing fans, and could cause Jets fans to lose patience with him if he carries this demeanor while also making occasional mistakes.

Something he’ll need to watch is that he doesn’t cross the line in terms of taunting while celebrating over an opponent or jawing with them at the end of a play. There were a few plays he made last season where that could have led to a flag and his on-field discipline has been lacking at times, with two personal fouls and an unsportsmanlike penalty last year alone.

One incident in particular gave cause for concern at the end of the Crimson Tide’s upset loss to Vanderbilt last season.

Moore - who had already been accused of a dirty hit on the opposing quarterback’s head at the end of a play - threw what can only really be described as a tantrum at the end of the game, yelling at teammates, throwing his mouthguard and then petulantly kicking the ball down the field after the officials tried to spot it for the victory formation. Perhaps even more worryingly, he then refused to leave the game as the coaches tried to sub him out.

Moore was a captain for the past two years, which points to the fact that he was known for having good character and leadership. However, the fact that this incident took place while Moore was a captain and fifth-year senior arguably makes it even worse.

To his credit, Moore apparently took ownership of the incident and vowed that he had learned from it and that it wouldn’t happen again. The coaches also threw their support behind him, saying they had dealt with it behind the scenes and decided not to suspend him because he “went above and beyond” to atone for his behavior and had been a critical piece for them during the rest of his career.

Hopefully that was an aberration and a learning experience for him. It would surely have been something every team asked him to justify at the combine so the Jets were presumably satisfied with his explanation.

He showed further signs of good character by being named a member of the SEC Community Service Team while at Alabama.

Injuries

Moore showed some toughness to play through some injuries while at Alabama but his durability may be a concern because he’s undersized.

In 2024, he missed the team’s bowl game as he went for surgery on a sports hernia, which had reportedly bothered him all year. He had been cleared in time for the scouting combine but opted to work out at his pro day instead to give it extra time to heal.

2023 saw him missing one game and knocked out of two others as he had a twisted ankle and he also had a concussion and a back injury while at Alabama. The latter ended his freshman season prematurely, causing him to miss the postseason.

Scheme Fit

It’s notable that Moore was a teammate of Brian Branch, who was a key leader for head coach Aaron Glenn’s Lions defense and reportedly put in a good word for Moore when Glenn asked him for a reference.

It will be interesting to see what kind of plan the Jets have for Moore. Unlike Michael Carter II, who was also an undersized college safety with short arms, Moore lacks the speed and athleticism to convert to a full-time cornerback role.

Athletically, Moore actually profiles more similarly to Branch, but there is a size difference of two inches and 20+ pounds.

The fact that he falls between those two players could indicate he’s a good schematic fit for the defense which Glenn is using the existing Jets personnel to create alongside defensive coordinator Steve Wilks.

Moore was also a teammate of current Jets defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis while at Alabama.

Conclusions

Moore is a player who will bring intensity and energy, having displayed plenty of playmaking ability in college. He’s also demonstrated versatility and been productive in an NFL-style defense against good opposition.

His size and durability could be concerning, and it’s clear he is a fiery player who may need to work at keeping his emotions under control. Without these issues, Moore’s film would probably have been good enough for him to warrant being a top-50 selection, so the Jets could end up with a bargain if he allays those fears.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ing-new-york-jets-rookie-safety-malachi-moore

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 05/13/25

Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning Gang Green Nation! During the recently concluded New York Jets rookie mini-camp there was a lot of talk about Giovanni Williams, the brother of the Jets’ star Williams brothers Quinnen and Quincy . While it would be a fun story for the Jets defense to feature three Williams brothers, Giovanni is the longest of long shots to make the team. He is not currently under contract with the Jets, having attended mini-camp as an unsigned tryout player. It’s extremely difficult for undrafted free agents to make the team. Tryout players face an even greater challenge, having to earn a contract after the briefest of opportunities at a three day mini-camp. Throw in the fact that Giovanni wasn’t exactly a star at tiny Miles College, and the fact that he is already 26 years old, and the odds against Williams are very, very steep. It would certainly make a great story, but I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for it to happen.

Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Tuesday in May:

Ethan Greenberg - Jets Sign Georgia WR Arian Smith to Rookie Contract

Randy Lange - Jets Rookie Minicamp Takeways

Jack Bell - LB Giovanni Williams Aiming to Make NFL History

Field Yates - Ranking 2025 NFL rookie impact for non-Round 1 draft picks

Steven Corder - Williams brothers aim to make NFL history with the New York Jets

Bryce Lazenby - Jets $40 million decision named among most head-scratching of NFL offseason

Nick Wojton - New York Jets winners, losers following the 2025 NFL draft

JetsWire - New York Jets needs following the 2025 NFL draft

Lou Scataglia - The Jets may already be falling for the Justin Fields offseason hype

Patrick McAvoy - Jets One-Time Savior Now Called 'Emergency Option'

Derek Praschak - Everything you need to know about NY Jets rookie CB Azareye'h Thomas

Mike Luciano - Jets pass-catchers are lighting up OTAs in the best way possible

Mike Luciano - Jets might be desperate enough to bring back a name fans never expected

Alexander Wilson - The Jets might've uncovered an undrafted running back gem

Alexander Wilson - The Jets drafted a 'nasty' new offensive cornerstone

Alexander Wilson - Jets are shifting their entire identity—and it starts with a different kind of energy

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy the day everybody.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...williams-aaron-glenn-arian-smith-mason-taylor

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets 2025 Schedule Tracker: News, rumors and leaks

Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

What we know about the schedule.

The 2025 NFL schedule is set to be officially released Wednesday night on NFL Network. The league has already started officially announcing the dates, times, and matchups for select games. This includes the Jets’ trip to London in Week 6 to take on the Denver Broncos. Per our partners at FanDuel Sportsbook, the Jets are 6.5 point underdogs to the Broncs.

Traditionally there are leaks before the official schedule comes out so let’s keep track of Jets schedule leaks before the official slate of games is announced.

Jets play Broncos in London Week 6

Get your passports ready. We're heading back to London in Week 6!

— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 13, 2025​

Week 1:

Week 2:

Week 3:

Week 4:

Week 5:

Week 6: vs. Denver (London)

Week 7:

Week 8:

Week 9:

Week 10:

Week 11:

Week 12:

Week 13:

Week 14:

Week 15:

Week 16:

Week 17:

Week 18:

Opponents:

Home: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos

Road: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jacksonville Jaguars

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ks-london-denver-broncos-buffalo-bills-ravens

 

[New York Jets]

Jets sign punter Kai Kroeger

Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

The Jets made an unexpected move on Tuesday afternoon when they announced they’d released veteran punter Thomas Morestead.

With a new special teams coordinator in town and veterans compensated handsomely (in relation to their positions at least) it was always going to be an area of focus.

I fully expected the Jets to make a move within their special teams to free up some cap space, I just thought we’d be sat here talking about Greg Zuerlein getting the boot instead of Thomas Morestead. For what it’s worth, I still think Zuerlein will be kicking elsewhere or nowhere at all next season.

Morestead in many ways had a below average season, but he did offer plenty in leadership and experience. The issue was that he was carrying a cap hit of $3,050,000 in 2025, and the Jets could and have opened up $2,550,000 by releasing him. When you’re coming off an average to below average season (he ranked 23rd in 40.9 net yards per attempt and 24th in 4.24 hang-time, min 30 snaps) and you’ve just turned 39, you’re vulnerable. You’re even more vulnerable if the team can save over $2.5 million.

But the Jets have a lot of uncertainty at the position. Austin McNamara was already on the roster, but he’s never appeared in a single NFL game, and the team also announced the signing of former South Carolina kicker Kai Kroeger. The scouting reports on both are pretty similar, big legs, plenty of power, but not much touch and questionable hang-time.

As mentioned earlier, Morestead ranked 24th in the league with a hang-time of 4.24. Well McNamara averaged a hang-time of 4.20 in college and Kai Kroeger was at 3.81, Kroeger has thrown 10 passes for 205 yards and 3 touchdowns in his career but if he can’t improve his hang-time he won’t stick around for long. Out-kicking your coverage allows a lot of opportunities for returners, which stresses your special teams tackling and coverage.

There were 33 punters in the NFL last season who attempted at least 15 punts, and not a single one averaged under 4 seconds for their hang-time. 4.11 was the shortest hang-time and around 4.38 is where you want to be if you want to hit that average mark. The best punter in the NFL last year was Michael Dickson over in Seattle and he had a hang-time of 4.53. If you have good direction and touch, and you pair it with a good unit you can get away with a punter around 4.2 seconds in hang-time...you can’t work with 3.81.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...cutting-veteran-thomas-morestead-nfl-afc-east

 

[New York Jets]

Jets Full 2025 Regular Season Schedule

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

The Jets will be playing a ton of early games this season.

The full New York Jets 2025 regular season schedule has been released.

All times are Eastern. Games could be flexed to different times and networks after the season begins.

Week 1: Sunday, September 7 vs Pittsburgh Steelers 1:00 pm CBS

Week 2: Sunday, September 14 vs Buffalo Bills 1:00 pm CBS

Week 3: Sunday, September 21 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1:00 pm Fox

Week 4: Monday, September 29 at Miami Dolphins 7:15 pm ESPN (Monday Night Football)

Week 5: Sunday, October 5 vs Dallas Cowboys 1:00 pm Fox

Week 6: Sunday, October 12 vs Denver Broncos (London) 9:30 am NFLN

Week 7: Sunday, October 19 vs Carolina Panthers 1:00 pm Fox

Week 8: Sunday, October 26 at Cincinnati Bengals 1:00 pm CBS

Week 9: Bye

Week 10: Sunday, November 9 vs Cleveland Browns 1:00 pm CBS

Week 11: Thursday, November 13 at New England Patriots 8:15 pm Amazon Prime (Thursday Night Football)

Week 12: Sunday, November 23 at Baltimore Ravens 1:00 pm CBS

Week 13: Sunday, November 30 vs Atlanta Falcons 1:00 pm FOX

Week 14: Sunday, December 7 vs Miami Dolphins 1:00 pm CBS

Week 15: Sunday, December 14 at Jacksonville Jaguars 1:00 pm CBS

Week 16: Sunday, December 21 at New Orleans Saints 1:00 pm CBS

Week 17: Sunday, December 28 vs New England Patriots 1:00 pm CBS

Week 18: Saturday, January 3 or Sunday, January 4 at Buffalo Bills

Highlights:

• The season begins with a home game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in which former Steelers and current Jets starting quarterback Justin Fields may be facing former Jets starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers has not yet signed with the Steelers, but that is considered his most likely landing spot if he doesn’t retire.
• After a disappointing season last year in which the Jets had a slew of nationally televised games and wildly underperformed expectations, the NFL limited this 2025 Jets team to just two prime time games.
• The Jets open with five home games in their first seven games (albeit one of the “home” games will be played in London, England against the Denver Broncos). There is a path here for a fast start.
• For those looking for an early end to Jets games, the Jets play just two games starting after 1:00 pm all season.
• The Jets’ season series against the Miami Dolphins appears to be favorable to the Jets. They play in the Miami heat and humidity in September. However, the game starts at 7:15 pm, avoiding the worst heat of the day and placing the bulk of the action in the relatively cool night. Then the Jets get the Dolphins at home in December, where the Dolphins struggle in cold conditions. This is about as favorable for the Jets against the Dolphins as we could reasonably hope for.
• The Jets’ bye week comes smack in the middle of the season in week 9, giving the team two weeks to rest up, heal some injuries, and come out strong for the second half of the season. Avoiding one of the earliest bye weeks, when they are often not needed before injuries start to mount, seems like a favorable development for the Jets
• The Jets play three of their last four games on the road, which is difficult. However, on the bright side, their opponents will be the Jaguars, the Saints and the Patriots, three teams not expected to be top teams this season, before closing the season on the road against the Bills. It’s possible that last game may be against a Bills team that has already clinched the AFC East and their seeding in the AFC playoffs. If things work out that way, the Jets might face the Bills’ backups to close out the regular season. There is a path here for a Jets winning streak to close the season. If everything breaks right, perhaps the Jets could sneak into the playoffs.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...dolphins-steelers-justin-fields-aaron-rodgers

 

[New York Jets]

Which game on the Jets 2025 schedule are you looking forward to seeing most?

Mark Hoffman-Imagn Images

There are a number of options

The 2025 Jets schedule has its share of intriguing matchups. Some are intriguing for storylines. Some have great matchups. Some are tests for key members of the team. Others are just at a fun venue. Which one do you find most compelling? These are the top contenders I see.

Week 1: vs. Steelers

We know Justin Fields will be taking on his former team. If Aaron Rodgers signs with the Steelers, this opener game would be unique. Both teams would be starting the opponent’s Week 1 quarterback from the previous year.

Week 2: vs. Bills

Buffalo is now the benchmark in the AFC East. The Bills have won the division five years in a row and will be favorites to make that six. Few are expecting the Jets to compete for the division title, but crazy things tend to happen when Buffalo visits the Meadowlands.

Week 6: vs. Broncos

This is less about the matchup than the venue. Yes, the Jets could attain some measure of revenge against the Broncos. Their season started falling apart last year after a Week 4 loss to Denver. But this game is in London. The fans who make the trip will likely make memories for a lifetime.

Week 8: at Bengals

The big question with the Bengals is whether they can get more out of their defense. There isn’t much question that their offense provides a big test to any defense who faces it. Sauce Gardner vs. Ja’Marr Chase should be one of the best player on player matchups of the season.

Week 12: at Ravens

The Ravens are constantly one of the top teams in the AFC, and Lamar Jackson puts unique stress on a defense. There won’t be a better test of Aaron Glenn’s quality as a schemer than this game.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...hedule-are-you-looking-forward-to-seeing-most

 

[New York Jets]

Jets have a slightly negative rest differential in 2025

John Jones-Imagn Images

They will face opponents that are a little fresher.

Over the last year or so, I have noticed discussion over the concept of rest differential. That is how much rest a team has entering games over their opponents. If you play on Sunday afternoon, while your next opponent is on Monday Night Football, it is a bit of an advantage. You get an extra day of rest. If you are coming off your bye while your opponent isn’t, you get seven.

Believe it or not, there are actually people who calculate rest differential for all 32 teams.

2025 NET REST DAYS

Teams with best advantage: DET, MIA, LAR
Teams with worst advantage: LV, NO, WSH pic.twitter.com/mo7kQomz2j

— NFL Nerd (@NerdingonNFL) May 15, 2025​

As you can see, the Jets have a slightly negative rest differential at -3 days.

The Jets have two games with a positive rest differential. They get a Buccaneers team coming off a Monday Night Football game in Week 3. They also have a Thursday Night Football game the week before they play the Baltimore Ravens in Week 12, which is three extra days.

The Jets have three games with a negative rest differential. In Week 4 and Week 8 they get the Dolphins and Bengals respectively coming off Thursday Night Football and the three extra days of rest it provides. The Jets also have a short week when they take on the Cowboys Week 5 by virture of that Week 4 Miami game coming on Monday Night.

I’m sorry to disappoint you all today. I know you like to get really fired up when I present you with news that the Jets are the best or worst at something. You’ll have to settle for this relatively neutral metric today.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...a-slightly-negative-rest-differential-in-2025

 

[New York Jets]

Jets release kicker Greg Zuerlein

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Zuerlein had two good years with the Jets, but his last year was difficult.

The Jets have announced the release of kicker Greg Zuerlein after three years with the team.

We have signed DE Michael Fletcher.

In addition, we have released K Greg Zuerlein.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 16, 2025​

The Jets signed Zuerlein in 2022. His first year was solid as he connected on 81.1 percent of his field goal attempts. His second year was excellent as he made 92.1%. His third and final year, however, was rocky. He made only 9 of 15 with several of the misses coming in tight losses. The Jets placed Zuerlein on IR halfway through the season, and he did not return to action.

There seems to be a youth movement on the team, which is spilling over to special teams. The release of the 37 year old Zuerlein comes days after the Jets parted ways with 39 year old punter Thomas Morstead.

The Jets now have two kickers on the roster. Anders Carlson made 8 of 10 kicks replacing Zuerlein last season. Caden Davis is an undrafted free agent signing out of Ole Miss.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/2025/5/16/24431883/jets-release-kicker-greg-zuerlein

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 05/17/25

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Thine daily New York Jets links hath arrived

Happy Saturday, Gang Green Nation, and congratulations for making it to the weekend.

There is actual Jets news today. The team has released kicker Greg Zuerlein after a difficult 2024 season where he missed 6 of his 15 field goal attempts and spent half the season on injured reserve. This comes days after the Jets cut punter Thomas Morstead. Both Zuerlein and Morstead are in their late 30s. It seems like the Jets are looking for a youth movement on special teams. Kicking performance can fluctuate wildly from one season to the next. The season before his 2024 disaster, Zuerlein was close to automatic, connecting on 35 of 38 field goals, including 5 of 6 from beyond 50 yards. Would it be a shock to see Zuerlein get healthy and refind his form with a new team in 2025? No. Should the Jets be able to find an adequate kicker fairly easily? Of course.

Rich Cimini - Why Justin Fields is perfect fit for the Jets’ new direction

Rich Cimini - Former Jets DB Jamal Adams likes idea of return to team

Eric Allen - Jets Sign DE Michael Fletcher

Brian Costello - Jets release Greg Zuerlein following terrible 2024 season

Antwan Staley - Jets release veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein after three seasons

Andy Vasquez - Jets cut another veteran starter | Who will replace him?

Andy Vasquez - Former Jets star turned villain lobbying for return. Could/should it ever happen?

Scott Engel - Best New York Jets NFL futures bets to make following 2025 NFL schedule release

NY Jets - 5 Burning Questions Surround the 2025 Jets Schedule

Al Iannazzone - Jets release kicker Greg Zuerlein

Josh Alper - Jamal Adams: I would love to be back with the Jets

Josh Alper - Jets release Greg Zuerlein

Nick Wojton - Jets projected to earn multiple compensatory picks at 2026 NFL draft

Nick Wojton - New York Jets release kicker Greg Zuerlein as roster changes continue

Paul Edsen - 3-Time All-Pro Seeking ‘Dream’ Reunion With Jets in 2025

Paul Edsen - Jets Abruptly Dump $8.4 Million Veteran After Disaster Season

Jonathan Vankin - Jets Predicted to Cut Ties With $6 Million Saleh-Douglas Regime Draft ‘Steal’

Patrick McAvoy - Jets’ Schedule Features The Most Confusing Team Of Offseason

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Release Former All-Pro Kicker After Struggle-Filled Season

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Share Brief Message After Cutting 13-Year NFL Veteran

Patrick McAvoy - Jets’ Justin Fields Tabbed As ‘Anti-Aaron Rodgers’

Jackson Roberts - Jets Blockbuster Trade Idea Lands Game-Breaking 1,000-Yard Receiver From Lions

John Flanigan - Free agent S Jamal Adams hoping to return to Jets, finish things the ‘right way’

John Flanigan - Jets release veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein, sign DE Michael Fletcher

Mike Kadlick - Jets Release Former All-Pro Kicker After Struggle-Filled Season

Mike Luciano - Jamal Adams pleading to rejoin Jets shows how far he has fallen

Mike Luciano - NY Jets game-by-game predictions after reveal of 2025 NFL schedule

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy Saturday.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...turn-arian-smith-armand-membou-garrett-wilson

 

[New York Jets]

Let bygones be bygones? Jamal Adams expresses interest in Jets reunion

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Former Jets All Pro safety pining for return to glory days

With the 6th pick in the 2017 NFL draft, the New York Jets selected safety Jamal Adams. At first, that looked like a home run of a pick as Adams netted 2 Pro Bowls, a first team All Pro designation, and a second team All Pro designation by the end of his third year with the team.

After that it went quite south, as Adams publicly feuded with the team. He asked to be traded for several months before the team eventually granted his request, sending him to the Seattle Seahawks. Things didn’t go too well for Adams in Seattle after his first year due to a rash of injuries which have since put his career on the brink.

Adams and the Jets have recently found themselves back in the news following an appearance the now 29 year old safety made on “The Jets Lounge.” podcast. On it, Adams spoke for two hours, and among other things, said that returning to the Jets would be “a dream come true.”

I'll give Adams credit, he took questions for 2+ hours, answering everything about his divorce from the Jets. He was open and admitted there were things he wishes he would've done differently.

Adams, 29, said he's healthy and still wants to play. He said it would be "a dream… https://t.co/ofWmo4njOl

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) May 15, 2025​

Admittedly, the Jets safety room could use an influx of some talent given that their current projected starters are Tony Adams and Andre Cisco, who are far from locks to be plus players in their own right. Whether Jamal Adams is better is a massive question mark, but the cost to bring him in will likely be zero for all practical purposes and it is possible that he finds a spark of what once made him great.

What do you think? Should the Jets let bygones be bygones and bring back Jamal “Prez” Adams?

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ms-expresses-interest-in-jets-reunion-ny-prez

 

[New York Jets]

Stop the Insanity: The Jets Are Almost Certainly Not Going to Bring Back Jamal Adams

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Silly season reaches its peak.

The time between the NFL Draft and the start of training camp is the slow period in the NFL. The news really starts to dry up.

From September through February, there are games to break down. February to March is all about getting ready for and analyzing free agency. Then from March to late April we do the same for the NFL Draft.

Once the Draft ends, there isn’t much left to talk about. So whenever a small snippet of news becomes available, it gets a ridiculous amount of attention relative to its actual performance. See the analysis of rookie minicamp or the NFL schedule release over the last couple of days. We will do it again with overanalysis of the offseason program practices in the weeks ahead.

It gets to the point where news gets created where none actually exists. Take a recent podcast interview by former Jets safety Jamal Adams. Adams left the team in a 2020 trade under acrimonious terms.

During this interview, Adams expressed interest in returning to the team and regret for how his time in New York ended as transcribed by Rich Cimini.

“[I would] just come in as a seasoned vet, give game to the young cats and help in any way, shape or form I can,” he said. “I know I can still play football. I’m healthy and I know I can impact the game in a lot of ways. I just need that fair opportunity to come in and show what I can do.”

---

“My biggest regret is me and Joe Douglas never speaking,” he said. “We never spoke on the phone one time. We never spoke in person one time before this trade happened. And that’s where I wish we could have that back, because I can’t speak for him but I didn’t go about it the right way at that time.”

What can we say about this. It’s an interesting interview. The podcast is worth a listen. Good job by the host getting this out of Adams.

Somehow this interview has morphed into, “There’s a good chance Jamal Adams is returning to the Jets.”

Look, it’s nice to hear that Jamal Adams regrets how he handled things. I think most would agree he acted like a jerk at the end of his Jets tenure. The Jets ended up benefitting greatly from trading him to Seattle. The picks they got in the deal were eventually used to select Garrett Wilson and Alijah Vera-Tucker while Adams’ career has fallen off a cliff in part due to injuries.

Does Jamal Adams saying he’s interested in coming back to the Jets remotely mean the Jets are going to be interested in bringing him back? Of course not.

I’m sure Adams would like to play for the Jets. At this point, he’d like to be on any of the 32 teams. He’s unsigned and wasn’t even on a roster at the end of last season. The Titans cut him in October after playing only three games. He ended up on the Lions practice squad where he was twice elevated to the active roster and then cut.

It makes all the sense in the world for Adams to pitch himself to any team that might have a remote degree of interest. What interest could a retooling Jets team have in a broken down 29 year old safety, though?

The fact he was on the Detroit practice squad with Aaron Glenn last year is the only reason I could see there being even a remote chance of this happening. Still he never made it off the practice squad and was cut before the Playoffs. He certainly hasn’t been a priority player for Glenn.

There is a point to remember both here and in similar situations in the future. Just because a player says he wants to play for the Jets doesn’t mean the Jets will be interested in that player.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...certainly-not-going-to-bring-back-jamal-adams

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 05/18/25

Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images

Apportez vos connexions quotidiennes aux Jets de New York de la NFL.

Good morning, Gang Green Nation.

This is generally known as the quiet part of the offseason. The offseason program is going on, but there usually aren’t many developments coming from that. The Jets cutting a player like Greg Zuerlein gets much more attention at this time of year than it would when the games are going on. The pickings are slim. The other big story of the last few days has been people pretending there’s a chance the Jets are going to consider bringing Jamal Adams back. Of course, soon enough football will be here, and there will be plenty to discuss. Until then, here are your Sunday Jets links.

Bent - Which ex-Jets will be playing in the CFL this year?

Nathan Jahnke - Fantasy Football 2025: RB Breece Hall player profile

Nick Faria - Pros and cons of budding NY Jets superstar reunion

Blair Yusko - NY Jets 2025 schedule puts team in prime position to make late season push

Mike Luciano - NY Jets could receive Arch Manning lifeline if NFL makes much-desired change

Kam Towle - Todd McShay: Rookie TE Mason Taylor is perfect for Jets’ Justin Fields

Patrick McAvoy - Ex-Jets Star Revealed ‘Biggest Regret’ In New York

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Ripped Despite Justin Fields Signing: ‘Transition Year’

Matthew Schmidt - Ohio State Legend Facing Most Stressful NFL Challenge Yet

Paul Edsen - Jets Sign 11.5 Sack Pass Rusher to Multiyear Deal After Tryout

Paul Edsen - NFL Sends Blunt Message to Jets: ‘Don’t Believe’

Colin Keane - Ice Spice, Jets Pro Bowler Cement Power Couple Status At Knicks Game

Alexander Wilson - The Jets are betting it all on youth — and these 5 players could change everything

Alexander Wilson - Jets reunion with one of their best safeties ever might actually be on the table

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy Sunday!

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...gram-greg-zuerlein-arch-manning-justin-fields

 

[New York Jets]

Scouting Jets rookie edge defender Tyler Baron

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Taking a look at the Jets rookie pass rusher

The Jets drafted former Miami defensive end Tyler Baron with their final pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft. Today we break Baron down in detail.

The 23-year old Baron is 6’5” and 258 pounds. He was an honorable mention all-ACC selection last year. He had 13.5 sacks in four years at Tennessee before transferring to Miami last year and registering 5.5 sacks.

Background

Baron was a four-star high school recruit who headed to Tennessee and recorded 21 tackles and a sack in a rotational role as a freshman in 2020.

In 2021, his role increased as he started five games and finished the season with 30 tackles and four sacks.

Baron’s production was down slightly in 2022, as he ended up with 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks having started three of 13 games.

However, his final year in Tennessee was his best as he started 11 games and had a career high six sacks. He also scored a touchdown on a fumble return.

He entered the transfer portal after the 2023 season and ended up with Miami where he had another productive season in 2024 with 5.5 sacks and a career-high 38 tackles. However, he was benched down the stretch after having started the first 10 games.

Baron was invited to the Senior Bowl and the NFL scouting combine before the Jets traded up and selected him with the final pick of the fifth round in April’s draft.

Let’s move onto some more in-depth analysis of what Baron brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.

Measurables/Athleticism

At the time of writing, the Jets are currently listing Baron at 308 pounds, which is obviously a mistake. He weighed in at 258 at the scouting combine. Despite being tall, he lacks ideal length.

At his combine workout, Baron ran a 4.62 in the 40-yard dash and posted good explosiveness numbers. However, his bench press was only 19 reps. He didn’t do the agility drills at the combine, but when he did them at his pro day they were below average.

Usage

Baron has primarily played on the edge, but he also brings some versatility, as he regularly lined up as a 5-technique across from the tackle. He also lined up inside to good effect in certain pass rush packages and dropped into coverage from time to time, albeit mostly into short zones.

Motor

Baron is a high activity player who works hard in the trenches and in pursuit and will keep coming when his initial move is repelled.

He’s proven capable of handling a starter’s workload with five games where he played over 50 snaps, including two in 2024.

Pass rush

Baron has registered good pressure rates over the course of his career, with an upwards trend in the last two seasons. It’s also notable that he has generated pressure at a good rate against top-level opposition rather than padding his stats against weaker teams.

He seems to have the most success on inside moves and interior stunts. He even beat Armand Membou for a sack in 2022.

As an outside speed rusher, Baron has a decent get off and shows flashes of being able to bend the edge.

He has had success with the bull rush and on speed-to-power moves at times, but this is an area where he may need some more development time.

Over the course of his career, Baron has had a handful of pressures that have led directly to turnovers.

Run defense

Baron lacks ideal strength and can play with a narrow base, so he is often blocked out of plays at the point of attack.

On the whole, though, his run defense production and grades have been good over the past few seasons, and he’s shown signs that his strength at the point of attack is improving.

His quickness enables him to shoot gaps and make plays in the backfield, although his backside discipline can be inconsistent.

Technique

Baron’s pass rushing foundation is solid. He isn’t just aimlessly firing out of his stance and trying to beat the tackle to the edge. Instead he brings some deception and change of direction skills.

In terms of pass rush moves, he has shown that he can transition from one move to another smoothly, although as noted he seems to be at his most effective on a straightforward inside move.

Nitpicking slightly, he might have more success if he sharpens up his jab steps even more to sell the misdirection.

When lined up inside, his quickness is tough for interior linemen to deal with. In particular, he has a slick arm-over move that has proved effective against guards and centers.

Special teams

Baron hasn’t had many special teams contributions in his career, with most of his reps being on the field goal rush unit where he has had no production. He also rushed some punts and had a few snaps as a blocker in punt protection.

He had one penalty on special teams in his career, for jumping offside on a kick attempt.

Tackling

Baron hasn’t been a particularly productive tackler over the course of his career and has had issues finishing at times. His six missed tackles in 2024 represented a career-high.

When he does make a tackle, he’ll often wrestle a guy to the ground, apparently relying on effort more than technique. He also only had two forced fumbles in his career.

Coverage

Baron dropped back into coverage a few times per game on average last year, having also done so earlier on in his career, but not much in his last two seasons with the Vols.

This would be more of a change-up than a schematic choice because he doesn’t look particularly comfortable or display much range in coverage.

He had four passes defensed in his career but all of them were deflections at the line.

Instincts/Intelligence

Baron’s instincts can be somewhat inconsistent. Sometimes he shows excellent awareness and play recognition, but there are other times where he will misread a hand-off or be fooled by misdirection.

Fans were frustrated with him at times for not setting the edge, with a belief circulating that he was freelancing by shooting inside to try and make a play rather than sticking to his gap responsibility.

He jumped offside twice on defense in 2024.

Attitude/Demeanor

Baron describes himself as self-driven and has been praised for having had a good work ethic and getting himself in good shape. He has also been called a vocal leader. However, there may be some concerns about his loyalty and whether he is a team-first player.

At multiple junctures during his time with the Vols, speculation was rife that he was intending to transfer and he eventually did. Even that wasn’t straightforward as he initially committed to Ole Miss, then changed his mind and joined Louisville before changing his mind again and ending up in Miami.

Part of that was perhaps understandable because his father worked on Tennessee’s coaching staff when he committed there but resigned shortly afterwards following a head coaching change.

The other cause for concern is his benching late last year. Having started the first 10 games, Baron was demoted to the third team against Wake Forest and played just three snaps, on which he misread two consecutive runs and did not return. He came off the bench with a reduced workload in the last two games.

No reason for that benching was given but fan speculation is that it is tied to his lack of discipline in the running game and perhaps his attitude.

Injuries

Baron played in 61 games in his college career so he obviously wasn’t seriously affected by any injuries. He was knocked out of games with head and ankle injuries but returned to the lineup right afterwards.

He also reportedly had nagging injuries throughout the 2021 season that affected his playing time and production but didn’t cause him to miss any games.

Scheme Fit

Baron likely fits into the Jets defensive line rotation as a rotational edge behind Will McDonald and Jermaine Johnson. He’ll compete with the likes of Rashad Weaver, Micheal Clemons, Eric Watts and Braiden McGregor for a spot.

Aside from that, perhaps they’ve seen something in his ability to rush the interior that will lead to them carving out a role for him in some particular subpackages.

He was a teammate of fellow rookie Kiko Mauigoa and Leonard Taylor III at Miami. His defensive line coach was also Jason Taylor, whose son was also drafted by the Jets.

Conclusions

Baron’s film isn’t bad and he had some solid production, but it’s interesting that fans of both the Vols and Hurricanes didn’t seem too enamored with him.

The Jets have likely identified him as a player who showed growth throughout his college career that has the potential to be a solid contributor if they can work on his strength and technique.

Nevertheless, some of those attitude concerns would be something that the Jets must have given some consideration to before pulling the trigger on this pick. As a mid-to-late rounder in a position where the Jets have solid starters, there won’t be pressure on Baron to display immediate results and he perhaps doesn’t have an elite upside, but the Jets will hope to mold him into a useful piece.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ew-york-jets-rookie-edge-defender-tyler-baron

 

[New York Jets]

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