It’s hard to complain about what’s gone on at New York Jets training camp. Many of the takeaways have been positive. Veteran quarterback Geno Smith’s homecoming has gotten off to a good start as he’s been praised for how he has attacked practices and a new opportunity.
Well, one tip of the cap deserves another. QB1 was asked about players who have stood out in his estimation so far. What was interesting was when he mentioned the guys who have stood out, the first player he mentioned by name was tight end Jelani Woods.
“Specifically, I like the way Jelani has been out there making plays,” Smith said.
The comment may not generate the same attention as praise for a star player, but it carries weight considering the circumstances. Woods entered camp as one of the more overlooked players on the roster, fighting for opportunities in a tight end room that includes first-round pick Kenyon Sadiq, second-year contributor Mason Taylor, and former third-round selection Jeremy Ruckert.
For Woods, earning recognition from the Jets’ starting quarterback is another encouraging sign in a career that has been defined by both promise and setbacks. The former Indianapolis Colts third-round pick flashed his potential as a rookie in 2022, finishing with 25 catches for 312 yards and three touchdowns. His development stalled after that, however, as injuries limited him over the next two seasons.
After undergoing toe surgery in 2024 and missing significant time, Woods was waived by the Colts during final roster cuts in 2025. The Jets quickly claimed him, and after re-signing him this offseason, they appear committed to seeing what he can become in their offense.
A new opportunity emerges. Woods’ timing couldn’t be much better. With first-round tight end Kenyon Sadiq currently sidelined while recovering from a setback related to offseason hernia surgery, additional practice reps have become available. That has opened the door for Woods to showcase the athletic traits that once made him an intriguing Day 2 draft pick.
The respect between Woods and Smith appears mutual. Woods recently called Smith “a legend to guys like me,” and Smith’s comments suggest the veteran quarterback has taken notice of the work Woods is putting in on the field.
Training camp praise doesn’t guarantee regular-season production, but Woods is steadily building momentum. In a crowded tight end room, he is making a strong case that he deserves to remain part of the Jets’ plans when the season begins, even if the ceiling might be a spot on the scout team.
With Sadiq sidelined and valuable reps available, Woods has been given a chance to remind the Jets why he was once viewed as one of the more intriguing young tight ends in football. He’s still a longshot, but if he continues to stack strong practices and earn the trust of Smith and the coaching staff, he could emerge as one of the more surprising success stories of New York’s training camp.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Geno Smith’s praise shines light on overlooked Jets tight end
Reporting by Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
