New York Jets offensive tackle Olu Fashanu is set to make his first NFL start this Sunday against the Denver Broncos (Week 4 at MetLife Stadium).
Ahead of the game, Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett praised Fashanu for his performance stepping in at right tackle during last Thursday’s matchup against the New England Patriots.
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“Just being put in that position … to have to come in there at right tackle and play. I thought he did a really nice job,” Hackett said. “It’s not too big for him, and that’s something that he wasn’t familiar with, but just to see that transition go and be able to be efficient was really good. And I think he’s just going to get better, so he’s developing every day.”
The Jets selected Fashanu in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft in the hope of him being the team’s left tackle of the future. However, his first NFL opportunity comes at right tackle after Morgan Mosses went down with a knee injury in the final second of the third quarter last Thursday. Moses is expected to miss 2-4 weeks.
New York prepared Fashanu for this moment in the offseason, as the first-round pick practiced at both tackle spots. Fashanu started training camp at left tackle, and after the team was pleased with how he performed in his preseason debut, they began giving him reps at right tackle.
While it may not be his natural position, seeing Fashanu step up after an injury is encouraging.
As Jets fans know, offensive line depth is crucial for a successful season. It’s a significant advantage for the team that Fashanu can play both tackle positions, especially considering both Jets tackles are in their 30s and have a history of injuries.
Over the next few weeks, Fashanu aims to prove why he was worthy of the 11th overall pick.
