Jets general manager Joe Douglas has many decisions to make about this roster in the offseason, but one that should be easy for him is bringing back Jordan Jenkins.
The fourth-year outside linebacker has been a bright spot in a dismal season. Jenkins has five sacks, eight quarterback hits, two passes defensed and one forced fumble in eight games.
Jenkins is a rarity in the world of the Jets — a mid-round pick who has actually produced. The 2016 third-round pick is not flashy and does not get many accolades, but if you watch the Jets each week you see him make plays. He has 17 ¹/₂ career sacks, though he is viewed as more of a “set the edge” linebacker than a pass rusher.
Jenkins is scheduled to become a free agent in March. It is unclear what kind of contract demands he will make, but the Jets should bring him back if he is looking for a reasonable deal.
The 25-year-old, whose father was in the Army, is also a good locker-room presence. He is well-liked and respected and usually only gets loud when arguing about his Georgia Bulldogs.
Douglas is going to turn over the roster this offseason and he likely will get rid of more of the Mike Maccagnan draft picks. Jenkins is one he should bring back. He’s a keeper.
For more on the Jets, listen to the latest episode of the “Gang’s All Here” podcast: