The New York Jets hammered out their initial 53-man roster on Tuesday afternoon, moving a total of 37 players. Although there were no unexpected cuts, there are multiple rarities amongst Gang Green’s 53. The Jets kept four running backs with 2023 fifth-round draft pick Israel Abanikanda surviving following his impressive preseason finale.
In another unusual occurrence, New York found roster spots for three undrafted rookie defensive linemen — Leonard Taylor III (Miami), Braiden McGregor (Michigan) and Eric Watts (Connecticut). In a strategy not often followed by NFL teams, Gang Green will have seven wide receivers on the roster, including sophomore Jason Brownlee and special teams ace Irvin Charles. The Jets are keeping only two quarterbacks for the time being but could be in the market to add one on a Practice Squad deal.
In terms of roster long shots, veteran Takk McKinley did enough to earn his spot. The former Atlanta Falcons ’ first-round draft pick, who was out of football for more than one year, impressed throughout training camp. Free-agent defensive line addition Leki Fotu along with veteran tight end Kenny Yeboah will start the season on Injured Reserve while rookie quarterback Jordan Travis is on the Non-Football Injury list .
All non-veterans must pass through the NFL waivers system while players with four years of service time can immediately sign with any team. RELEASED / WAIVED JETS CB Shemar Bartholomew The Georgia Southern product signed an UDFA contrac.