The New York Jets haven’t been shy about their expectations for rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq. Neither has head coach Aaron Glenn.
Speaking before the team’s first training camp practice, Glenn was asked about the rookie. The answer contained what you might expect: acclaim, analysis, and expectation.
Glenn praised the rookie’s rare blend of size, speed and versatility, suggesting the Jets already have an expansive vision for how he’ll fit into the offense. Glenn began breaking down Sadiq’s early look in training camp and needed just three words to start.
“Man he’s big,” Glenn began.”
“He’s 250 pounds,” the coach continued. “We know he runs a 4.3 (second) 40 (yard dash), and he has really good hands.”
That combination is exactly what made Sadiq one of the most intriguing tight ends in this year’s draft class. Glenn didn’t stop with the physical traits, though. He also hinted at how offensive coordinator Frank Reich plans to deploy the rookie.
“We plan to utilize him in a number of different ways. To match him up with the other tight ends we have, it’s really exciting. He’s gonna be a huge weapon for us, and I’m looking forward to how we’re gonna utilize him.”
That’s the type of endorsement every rookie hopes to hear from a first-year head coach. Rather than viewing Sadiq as a developmental player, the Jets appear eager to make him part of the offense from Day 1. His ability to stretch the field, create mismatches against linebackers and contribute after the catch gives New York another dynamic option alongside its established playmakers.
The praise has been continual. Pundits continue to label the Jets’ acquisition of him as a “steal”, as was stated in a Jets Wire offering back in April.
“Sadiq trades in his Oregon green for Gang Green. He will be a focal point of the passing game, providing a new element to the passing attack that will take some attention off Garrett Wilson.”
New York landed the former Oregon Ducks star 16th overall during Round 1 of the most recent NFL draft. Training camp will determine exactly how quickly Sadiq earns snaps, but Glenn’s comments offered a glimpse into the organization’s confidence.
The Jets didn’t draft the rookie simply because of his athletic profile. They drafted him with a vision. If Glenn’s early assessment proves accurate, Sadiq won’t spend long easing into the NFL. He could become one of the most versatile weapons in New York’s offense before his rookie season is even halfway complete.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets’ Aaron Glenn needs just 3 words to detail rookie TE Kenyon Sadiq
Reporting by Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
