The New York Jets may have uncovered a hidden gem at the kick returner position in undrafted free agency.
Speaking with reporters at OTAs (per Jets X-Factor’s Robby Sabo), Jets special teams coordinator Chris Banjo commended undrafted free agent Jamaal Pritchett.
“We brought in a young guy in Pritchett, he has been doing a phenomenal job back there [returning kicks] for us,” said Banjo.
Pritchett, a native of Alabama, played three seasons at South Alabama. He finished his college career with 150 catches for 2,034 yards and 17 touchdowns in 33 games.
The wideout delivered a standout season in 2024, leading the Sun Belt in receiving yards (1,127) while hauling in 91 passes and nine touchdowns. His performance ultimately earned him first-team all-conference honors.
Pritchett also brings special teams upside, averaging 15.3 yards on 12 punt returns.
Banjo also said he wants his unit to be “competitive as hell,” and Pritchett will need to embody that mindset throughout training camp to earn a roster spot.
The Alabama native will have a chance to challenge Xavier Gipson for the Jets’ starting kick returner job this summer.
Gipson averaged 8.1 yards per punt return on 33 attempts last season and received a 47.3 grade from Pro Football Focus. By comparison, Pritchett earned a 78.8 grade from PFF, returning 12 punts for 183 yards and a touchdown in limited action.
With the Jets seeking versatile playmakers, Pritchett’s skill set could help him secure a role that extends beyond special teams.
An impressive summer could make Jamaal Pritchett a surprise name on the New York Jets’ 53-man roster.
