Three members of the New York Jets’ rookie class spoke to the media on Saturday.
Left tackle Olu Fashanu spoke about learning from veterans Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses, specifically mentioning how they have helped him “load up better in his stance” and have “better hand placement.”
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“I feel like a lot of people aren’t blessed to be in that type of position where you have two great tackles in the same room,” Fashanu said. “And, you know, I’ve been making the most out of it, and they’ve been awesome. They’re always right behind me, guiding me on the right path and helping me with any and everything that I need. Just giving me extra advice on how to take my game to the next step. So it’s been great.”
Fashanu also discussed the challenges of facing what he called “the best defense” in the league.
“It’s definitely been challenging at times. But you know, I’m taking every rep because at the end of the day, we’re just getting each other better.”
Former CFL cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers spoke about how receivers like Garrett Wilson have helped and will continue to help improve his play going forward.
“Keep doing what they do every every day. I want to work every day, Physical battles, no matter what it is. We are working.”
The rookie cornerback also spoke about his journey to New York, which involved meeting Michael Carter II and Quincy Williams.
“So the crazy part is I actually met Quincy first in Atlanta at DSA training. I then met MC, and then I met IO (Isaiah Oliver). Just getting his number for the draft and, you know, connecting with him. It was almost meant to be. I feel like New York was always home for me.”
Regarding his position group, Stiggers called it “the best position group in the league” and talked up how D.J. Reed taught him how to have a “next-play mindset” regardless of a play’s outcome.
As for Braelon Allen, the running back said that pass protection is the “one thing he is working on the most” and credited the veterans in the running back room for an easier transition. He then spoke further about his progress so far in that area.
“You know, I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m the best in the world at it, but it’s something that I’ve grown a lot in, especially over the past year. But it’s something that I take seriously and take a lot of pride in and something that I do want to be the best at. So, you know, like I said, it’s a work in progress, and I’m just trying to to develop that skill every day.”
Allen also said that he is focused on “imposing his will” on defenders at the running back position in the NFL.
To differing degrees, these three rookies will have a role in 2024.
Allen has the most straightforward path to playing time, likely serving as the RB2 behind Hall. Fashanu is next, as he is right behind Tyron Smith on the depth chart. Stiggers would likely need multiple injuries from starting cornerbacks to see consistent playing time.
However, beyond 2024, all three players are key for the Jets. With their upper-echelon potential, Fashanu, Allen, and Stiggers are set to be key pieces of the organization for years to come.
