Jamien Sherwood, the New York Jets’ fifth-round pick out of Auburn, becomes the first draftee to sign his rookie deal.
One down, 258 to go.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood is the first name from last weekend’s NFL Draft proceedings to sign his rookie contract. Schefter cites Sherwood’s agent Drew Rosenhaus and claims the four-year deal is worth over $3.8 million. SNY’s Ralph Vacchiano states that the deal comes with a $350,000 signing bonus.
Four-year deal is worth $3,834,856. https://t.co/1vNbzclg6l
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 5, 2021
Sherwood, an Auburn alum, was chosen in the fifth round at 146th overall last Saturday. He ranked ninth in SEC solo tackles last season with 44 and earned 140 overall over three years as a Tiger. The Jensen Beach, FL native was listed as a defensive back upon his selection but now appears as a linebacker on the Jets’ official roster.
The selection of Sherwood was part of a busy day for the Jets’ defense, as they used each of their final five picks on defenders, namely members of the secondary (Michael Carter III, Jason Pinnock, Brandin Echols, Hamsah Nasirildeen).
During his time at Auburn, Sherwood was able to force receivers into the middle of the field and gained a reputation as a strong tackler, leading some to believe that he can contribute in special teams coverage as well. His build (6’2, 216 lbs.) caused some to believe that his eventual new team would move him to linebacker, and the Jets appear to be doing the same thing with Nasirildeen, who was previously listed as a safety.
“I’m more than comfortable,” Sherwood said of his new defensive duties, per Mark Inabinett of Alabama.com. “At the end of the day, I’m a football player. My versatility got me here. I’m just going to go out there and make plays.”
The Jets have eight other picks to sign after the weekend’s event, headlined by first-round choices Zach Wilson and Alijah Vera-Tucker.
Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags
