During his “Irrelevant Week,” the New York Jets’ rookie safety picked up a new hobby
The New York Jets’ Mr. Irrelevant had himself an eventful “Irrelevant Week.”
In a video from The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt, rookie safety Jaylen Key, the final pick of the 2024 NFL draft, was seen learning how to surf in Newport Beach, California.
#Jets rookie Jaylen Key learning how to surf on the last day of Mr. Irrelevant activities.
Pete Townend (legendary surfer) gave him a 5 (out of 10) — the best score he’s ever given to a Mr. Irrelevant. @Jaylen_Key pic.twitter.com/xMJyeDTR8t
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) June 27, 2024
“#Jets rookie Jaylen Key learning how to surf on the last day of Mr. Irrelevant activities. Pete Townend (legendary surfer) gave him a 5 (out of 10) — the best score he’s ever given to a Mr. Irrelevant,” said Rosenblatt.
The surfing lessons were one of many activities that Key partook in. Key caught a football-shaped calzone and had multiple media appearances on different platforms throughout the week.
Brock Purdy threw a football shaped calzone during Mr. Irrelevant celebrations in Newport Beach two years ago. #Jets rookie @Jaylen_Key caught one today. pic.twitter.com/O4ls7xjibQ
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) June 27, 2024
By all accounts, Key had an enjoyable week honoring his status as “Mr. Irrevelevant.” He was treated as a celebrity and had more spotlight than other players picked around his range.
Heading into training camp, Key will look to make his mark in a wide-open Jets safety room. Key will have a great opportunity to learn from veterans in the room such as Chuck Clark and Ashytn Davis. If he isn’t ready to contribute, the rookie could take a “redshirt” year and get his feet underneath him in the NFL. The Jets did this with their 2023 seventh-round pick, tight end Zack Kuntz, who spent most of his rookie year on the practice squad.
Safety is one of the few “open” positions on the Jets. They have talented players, but the starting duo has yet to be solidified. Nothing has been set in stone yet.
In the coming weeks and months, Key has a chance to capitalize on his opportunity and ensure this past week is the last time the “irrelevant” label is ever put on him.
