New York Jets undrafted free agent Kenny Yeboah possesses the necessary tools to make the roster as a tight end, as the film proves.
Once the seventh round of the NFL draft concludes, that’s all she wrote. Right? Not exactly. It’s at this point when some of the most exhilarating fun begins: the time when undrafted free-agent scrambling arrives.
The argument can be made that it’s more beneficial to be the guy who goes undrafted—as opposed to the later rounds—as he actually has a decision in his next destination assuming there’s mutual interest. Whether it’s based on lack of competition at their position, proximity to their home, or where they went to college, the undrafted kids own a choice.
New York Jets fans had a few names in mind they desperately wanted their team to sign. Ole Miss tight end Kenny Yeboah was atop their list. Based on the team’s need at tight end and the belief that Yeboah could’ve gone as early in the fourth round of the draft, his name made all the sense in the world.
I agree with idea that the Jets are thin at tight end and needed (and probably still need) an infusion of young talent. Fourth-year pro Chris Herndon flashed his rookie year but missed his sophomore campaign due to injuries. His third year was disappointing, to say the least.
Both Tyler Kroft and Trevon Wesco are more impactful than most think, as blocking isn’t sexy but is obviously important and largely goes unnoticed. But beyond those names, there isn’t much depth or potential young talent that can emerge.
Daniel Brown is nothing but a JAG (just another guy) and Ryan Griffin had a few good years in the NFL—including one with the Jets in 2019—but he was invisible in 2020. The Jets could save $1.8 million of his $3.2 million owed in 2021, making him a prime candidate to be cut as the roster gets trimmed down.
In short, the Jets needed a young vertical threat at the position, and they may have acquired that in the Ole Miss product.
There are still many questions that remain, however. Where does he fit in? Does he actually have a chance to make the roster? Why did he fall in the draft?
Let’s take a look at some plays showcasing Kenny Yeboah’s major strengths and weaknesses. Below them, you will also find a full list of strengths and weaknesses in addition to an hour-plus episode of Blewett’s Blitz where I break down his collegiate tape.
Strengths
YAC/speed
Good play design from Ole Miss here, as they put Yeboah (bottom slot) in motion pre-snap and pair the run fake with a pulling left guard to sell it further. They then combine a “wave” with a post-wheel. The quarterback reads that both of the posts are picked up, which means the wheel from Yeboah is open.
Yeboah then shows some of his speed in the open field, as he streaks down the sideline. The cornerback closes ground on Yeboah along the sideline and attempts to go low with the tackle.
Yeboah stays light on his feet as he slightly hurdles the cornerback while using his left to shove him into the grass. He remains on his feet while showing good balance and manages to pick up another 16-17 yards before he is brought down from behind.
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Excited to see him as the summer progresses. Especially with our need and this coaching staff.