Alex Parker

u/alex

Jets waive Mr. Irrelevant Jaylen Key, but he still aims to make an impact

Jets waive Mr. Irrelevant Jaylen Key as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season.

Why it matters: The Jets' decision to release Jaylen Key, the last player selected in the 2024 NFL draft, highlights the intense competition during roster cuts and the challenges faced by late-round picks.

  • Mr. Irrelevant is a label given to the final pick of the draft, and Key embraced the title with determination to prove his worth.
  • The Jets ultimately decided to part ways with Key, but there may still be a chance for him to join their practice squad.

What's new: The Jets waived safety Jaylen Key, the last player chosen in the draft, as they trimmed their roster to 53 players.

Yes, but: Despite not making the team's final cut, Key showed promise during the preseason, logging the most defensive snaps on the team and recording 11 tackles.

What to watch: Keep an eye on whether the Jets choose to add Jaylen Key to their practice squad, which would provide him an opportunity to continue developing and potentially earn a future spot on the active roster.

The bottom line: Being Mr. Irrelevant is often seen as a lighthearted tradition, but it comes with the challenge of proving oneself against stiff competition. While Key's journey with the Jets may have hit a temporary roadblock, his determination and talent could lead to future success in the NFL.