Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq's First Words After Being Drafted

Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq was the first player at his position taken in the 2026 NFL Draft. 

That was no surprise, as the talented Ducks star impressed NFL front offices during the scouting combine earlier this year in Indianapolis.

Sadiq is going to the New York Jets, which finished 3-14 in Aaron Glenn's first season as the head coach. The Jets have made notable changes to overall their roster this offseason.

New York traded for quarterback Geno Smith, who will be targeting Sadiq this fall. The Jets made a big push in the draft, trading up to make three total selections in the first round. 

Sadiq will join Texas Tech edge David Bailey and Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. as rookies in New York. 

Following the news that the Jets drafted him, Sadiq said he was exited to play in New York.

"It's unreal, man. Need to be the Jets. It's special," said Sadiq, via the Jets. "My sister currently lives in New York, so I'm happy to get down there. But great interactions with all the staff, in meetings and everything. So I'm beyond excited, super grateful."

Sadiq showed off his pass catching ability at Oregon. He'll do that with the Jets. However, he was developing in to a solid blocking tight end. 

He thinks his flexibility will be an asset in the NFL.

"I think it's versatility, speed and toughness, bro, seriously," he said. "I think I can help in the running and passing game on top of that. I'm sure I'm on special teams as well.

"That's what I did at Oregon, and that's what I'll continue to do. I can create separation, but I can also go hit someone. Obviously, the NFL is different. I'm going to have to clean some things up. But, man, I'm going to go hit somebody. I'm not going to be scared."

The Jets appear to be on the way up after making impressive moves in the first round on Thursday night.

Sadiq should be in a good position to succeed in the league, if New York can get good play out of the quarterback position.