Posted on Apr 29
Jets select safety Jaylen Key as Mr. Irrelevant in NFL draft, set to make an impact despite being last pick
u/alex •
FLORIDA -- The New York Jets have chosen safety Jaylen Key as Mr. Irrelevant with the final pick in the seventh round of the NFL draft. Key, a graduate of Amos P. Godby High School in Tallahassee, Florida, and a former player at the University of Alabama-Birmingham and Alabama, expressed excitement about embracing the title and making an impact despite being the last pick.
The title of Mr. Irrelevant has gained significance in recent years, with past recipients making their mark in the league. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, the final player picked in the 2022 draft, helped his team reach the Super Bowl. Jaylen Key is eager to follow in those footsteps and prove his worth on the field.
As part of the Mr. Irrelevant tradition, Jaylen Key will participate in Irrelevant Week, an event held in Newport Beach, California, to honor the last pick of the NFL draft each year. The week-long celebration includes various activities, such as a trip to Disneyland and a trophy presentation, providing Key with a memorable experience and recognition for his achievement.
Jets general manager Joe Douglas involved his scouts in the decision-making process for the Mr. Irrelevant selection. Key was recommended by the scouts and ultimately chosen for his intelligence, football IQ, length, and play speed. Despite being the last pick, the Jets see potential in Key and believe he can compete for a spot on the roster.
Jaylen Key will join the Jets' safety group, which includes incumbent Tony Adams, veteran Chuck Clark, and backup Ashtyn Davis. With his skillset and determination, Key will have the opportunity to compete for playing time and showcase his abilities on the field.
During his college career, Jaylen Key stood out as a playmaker in the secondary. In his one season at Alabama, he started 12 games at free safety, recording one interception, two passes defensed, and 60 tackles. At UAB, Key led the team with three interceptions in 2022 and received an honorable mention for All-Conference USA. His physical style of play makes him a formidable force in the backfield.
The selection of Jaylen Key as Mr. Irrelevant by the New York Jets marks an exciting chapter in his football journey. Despite being the final pick in the draft, Key is determined to make an impact and prove his worth to the team. With his college accomplishments and the support of the Jets organization, Key has the opportunity to defy expectations and carve out a successful NFL career.