Following a release from the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday, Jelani Woods has a comeback opportunity in the green and white.
The New York Jets claimed the 26-year-old tight end off waivers Wednesday, joining linebacker Cam Jones and offensive tackle Esa Pole as their post- roster deadline additions.
Woods closes a frustrating chapter in Indianapolis after two lost seasons because of injuries, and will embark on a new journey in East Rutherford.
A ‘What-If” Story with Colts
A third-round pick in 2022, Woods looked like they had unearthed one of the NFL’s most unique tight end prospects. At 6-foot-7, 253 pounds with 4.61 speed at the Combine, he possessed a high ceiling. That combination is typically a matchup nightmare for defensive backs, as well as linebackers.
His rookie season delivered flashes of that potential, finishing with 25 receptions for 312 yards and three touchdowns in 15 appearances. But injuries the following two campaigns derailed his rise and development.
A string of hamstring setbacks sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. Then toe surgery that cost him all of 2024. By the time he returned healthy this preseason in a competitive Colts tight end room, seven receptions for 75 yards weren’t enough to retain a spot on the the depth chart.
Jets Boost Their Passing Game After Woods Signing
For New York, Woods adds both size and upside to a tight end group that has quietly become a point of emphasis.
“A huge tight end that’s going to help us as a blocker and as a receiver,” coach Aaron Glenn said of Woods, per AP News.
Rookie Mason Taylor, the second-round pick out of LSU this spring, is expected to be featured heavily. Jeremy Ruckert has shown progress as a versatile piece, while Stone Smartt offers depth. Now Woods enters the mix as a low-risk, high-upside addition who could find snaps as both a blocker and a situational red-zone target.
While the Jets hope Taylor eventually blossoms into a true TE1 for Justin Fields in the offense, Woods will likely pursue the TE2 role, which could wind up being his best path to sticking long term.
Across the NFL, more offenses are leaning into two-TE sets to create mismatches and open up targets for their top wideouts in the system. Woods is somebody who can help stretch defenses.
The Colts enter Week 1 of the regular season with first-round sensation Tyler Warren, veteran Mo Alie-Cox brings, Drew Ogletree and Will Mallory.
Former Colts TE Finds Fresh Start With Jets After Release