We’ve reached that time of year: When NFL fans and analysts debate whether it’s a red flag if a prospect decides to skip the combine.
The latest subject is a player widely expected to be drafted by the New York Jets: Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.
The 21-year-old pass-catcher is currently the consensus favorite to be drafted by the Jets with the 16th overall pick, per the website NFL Mock Draft Database. According to data collected over the past two weeks (Feb. 10-23), Tyson is being mocked to the Jets at No. 16 in 18% of mock drafts, which makes him the clubhouse favorite in that slot.
Unfortunately for the Jets and their fans, it seems they will have to wait until Arizona State’s pro day to see Tyson in action.
It’s a curious choice by Tyson, as he was one of the prospects with the most potential to climb the draft board with a strong combine performance.
Tyson is coming off an injury-plagued year in which his production dipped compared to the 2024 season. This was his opportunity to prove to scouts that he is healthy and remains a top-tier specimen at the position, but now, we won’t get to see Tyson in the combine’s fixed environment.
Perhaps Tyson has already received a favorable draft projection based on his film, and, therefore, was advised not to take the risk of hurting his stock due to combine drills. So, it’s an understandable move by the Sun Devils star.
Still, Tyson could have sealed the deal on his status as a top-three wide receiver prospect and top-10 overall prospect with a dazzling display in Indianapolis. That’s off the table now, which muddies the water a bit for New York.
