The New York Jets love what they have seen in seventh-overall rookie right tackle Armand Membou. The Missouri product has shown the upside that thrilled the team throughout the pre-draft process.
As good as Membou has been, the organization knows he could not have drawn a tougher first test on Sunday.
When the Pittsburgh Steelers travel to MetLife Stadium to take on the Jets, they will bring one of the best defensive players of the modern era. T.J. Watt has made some of the league’s elite offensive linemen look mediocre. Despite turning 30 last October, Watt is still one of the best edge rushers in the league and on track for a Hall-of-Fame career.
Watt’s Week 1 matchup? The Jets’ rookie in Membou. Pittsburgh’s star edge rusher primarily lines up across from the right tackle.
As tough a battle as it could be on Sunday, Gang Green remains as confident as ever in their top 10 pick.
Jets address All-Pro challenge
New York offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand won’t be giving up his gameplan on how he’s going to handle a superstar in Watt. Speaking to reporters before Thursday’s practice, though, the first-time play-caller made it clear how much belief they have in their rookie.
“We brought Armand [Membou] in here for a reason, and he’s up to the challenge,” Engstrand said. “Not to say it’s not going to be challenging, but we feel great about it. We feel great about where he’s at and where our plan is.”
As much as the Jets may want Membou to handle Watt in a one-on-one matchup, the team should not expect it. Some of the best offensive linemen in league history have looked foolish at the hands of Pittsburgh’s All-Pro edge rusher.
Whether it’s with an additional tight end, a chip from a running back, or a double-team with a guard, the Jets should be ready to send extra help for Membou on Sunday.
This also isn’t to say that Membou is destined to be a poor player if he struggles against Watt.
Many great tackles struggled in their rookie year before reaching their primes. Former New York Giants fourth-overall pick Andrew Thomas is a perfect example of this.
If Membou stands out positively on Sunday, it would be a massive boost for the Jets. If he struggles, New York must be ready to help him out against one of the best in the league.