A lot of things went wrong for the previous regime of the New York Jets. Linebacker Jamien Sherwood was not one of those things.
Taken in the fifth round of the 2021 draft by New York, Sherwood has developed into one of the better linebackers in the league. After signing a three-year, $45 million extension with the new regime in Florham Park, though, the Jets won’t be pleased for Sherwood to be a developmental piece anymore.
They are expecting more both on and off the field.
Jamien Sherwood Addresses Increased Expectations
Speaking to reporters for the first time since signing his extension this offseason, Sherwood made it clear that he understood the growing expectations now on his shoulders.
“For me, it’s continuing the same type of play. Getting better a little bit each and every day. For me, though, it’s taking a bigger leadership role,” Sherwood said. “I had a big offseason signing a new deal but that only happened because of the teammates I had. To me, that means nothing if I can’t bring people along with me. It means everything to me knowing I can take care of my family.
“I want to help someone else do the same thing for their family. Helping people study, play harder so when their time comes they are put in the same situation.”
New York parted ways with former defensive captain C.J. Mosley. Sherwood has credited Mosley a ton for his development on the field.
As a leader, though, the defense will be looking to the 25-year-old to take next step in his communication.
In 2024, Sherwood recorded 158 tackles with three passes defended and two sacks. Pro Football Focus graded his season at an impressive 73.8. The grade was 10th out of 64 linebackers (min. 500 snaps). He ranked 12th in PFF’s coverage grade and 15th against the run.
The Jets know they have a talented player in Sherwood, though. They aren’t just paying him to be a great sideline-to-sideline linebacker.
New York needs Sherwood to take the next step as a leader and communicator.
And it appears Sherwood is ready for that challenge in 2025.
