The New York Jets have reunited with a former friend.
New York announced on Wednesday that they have signed offensive lineman Connor McGovern to the practice squad. They also released running back Xazavian Valladay to make room for the veteran offensive lineman.
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We have signed Connor McGovern to the practice squad and released Xazavian Valladay from the practice squad.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 11, 2024
McGovern played for the Jets from 2020-2023, starting 55 games at center. He racked up 3,426 offensive snaps with the Jets, leading the team over that span.
As a player, McGovern was a reliable starter in both the passing and running games. His best run-blocking season was in 2021 when he posted a 78.9 Pro Football Focus grade in that category. As a pass blocker, the veteran was steady in 2021 and 2022 before falling off in that category in 2023. McGovern exclusively played center with the Jets, but he played right guard at the beginning of his career with the Broncos.
It makes sense for the Jets to add McGovern as veteran insurance on the interior of their offensive line. With Wes Schweitzer on injured reserve, New York needed an experienced option to turn to in the event of an injury.
McGovern serves that role perfectly. Is he going to be an All-Pro in his position? No. But he is a consistent contributor who could help keep the team above water in a pinch, which is all you can ask for from a free-agent signing at this point of the season.
The Jets offensive line is in a better place than it was yesterday. Now, they have to ensure their on-field performance is up to par in Week 2. Specifically, the offensive line needs to improve in the running game.
