The New York Jets have officially parted ways with rookie defensive back Jalen Key, selected as “Mr. Irrelevant” with the final pick of the 2024 NFL Draft. Key, who came out of Alabama, spent less than a quarter of the season with the Jets before the team decided to release him to make room for linebacker Brandon Smith.
Brandon Smith, a former fourth-round selection by the Carolina Panthers, is joining the Jets after a collegiate career at Penn State where he recorded an impressive 118 tackles, including 17 tackles for loss, over his last two seasons. Despite this promising background, Smith has struggled to make a significant impact in the NFL. He has participated in just 14 games with the Panthers and the Philadelphia Eagles, accumulating a mere nine tackles in that time.
In addition to bringing Smith on board, the Jets have also confirmed the addition of veteran defensive back Jalen Mills, whose signing was reported the previous day. This roster adjustment reflects the Jets’ efforts to strengthen their defense amid a challenging season. By releasing Key and acquiring Smith and Mills, the Jets aim to bolster their defensive lineup as they navigate through the remainder of the season.
This move highlights the competitive nature of the NFL, where even recently drafted players can find themselves on the chopping block as teams seek to enhance their rosters. As the Jets continue to develop their team dynamics, the hope is that new additions like Smith and Mills will provide a boost to the defense. The coaching staff and management will be closely monitoring the performance of these players as they strive for improvement and greater cohesion on the field.
