The young TE hasn't been able to stay healthy to this point in his career, but he is a big play waiting to happen.
The New York Jets are in the midst of a pretty exciting time right now as an organization. It might not seem like it coming off an awful season where they weren't even able to record an interception, but they're on the way up.
The optimism can be largely attributed to the assets the franchise has at its disposal to use this offseason. The Jets are going into the offseason with 11 total draft picks and the 4th-most projected cap space to spend, at roughly $79 million.
It's not out of the question to hypothesize that if the Jets are able to nail 50-75% of their draft picks and hit on reasonably priced free agents this offseason, that they could look to easily double their meager win total of three games last season.
Yesterday, the New York Jets announced via social media that they had extended a player who, if healthy, could have a massive impact in 2026.
The New York Jets Extended TE Jelani Woods
Jan 1, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Indianapolis Colts tight end Jelani Woods (80) runs after a catch against the New York Giants during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn ImagesJelani Woods to this point in his career has been one of the biggest what-if's, in my opinion, in the league. At 6'7 253lbs, Woods presents one of the most physically dominant frames in the sport and has uncanny athleticism at his size.
Woods was claimed by the Jets last season, and in just four games, he played a limited number of snaps. He was originally drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, who were employing the now Jets OC, Frank Reich, as HC.
Woods has all the tools to be an all-purpose tight end, yet he struggles to stay on the field healthy. He missed both the 2023 and 2024 seasons due to injuries to his hamstring, followed by turf toe.
However, when healthy with the Colts, he showed flashes of brilliance. While he never got the targets or playtime required to really pop, when he did get the ball, it would be a massive play.
Most notably, he caught a game-winning, jump-ball TD against the Kansas City Chiefs and followed that up a few weeks later with an 8 catch, 98 yard day against Pittsburgh.
If Woods can stay healthy, the Jets will be giving whoever ends up at QB a solid weapon.
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