The New York Jets have added linebacker Jaden Keller to the roster following their recent rookie minicamp, while simultaneously releasing Ochaun Mathis. The move, announced early this week, reflects the team’s ongoing effort to fine‑tune depth at the linebacker position as it heads into the 2024 offseason.
Keller, a 2023 graduate of Virginia Tech, was one of 31 undrafted free agents invited to the Jets’ minicamp on a tryout basis. Over four seasons with the Hokies, he appeared in 52 games, accumulating 181 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and two recoveries. His performance in the camp earned him a contract, giving the Jets a versatile, special‑teams‑ready defender who can contribute both in the run game and in pass coverage.
The signing coincided with the release of Ochaun Mathis, a former sixth‑round pick of the Los Angeles Rams in 2023. Mathis spent the 2023 season on the Jets’ practice squad after brief stints with the Rams, New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles, appearing in 14 games across those three clubs. The decision to waive Mathis clears a roster spot for Keller and underscores the Jets’ preference for players who can immediately impact special teams and depth charts.
For Keller, the contract marks the transition from a prolific college career to the professional ranks. Virginia Tech’s defensive unit benefited from his consistency, and his ability to read plays and make tackles in space aligns with the Jets’ defensive philosophy under head coach Rex Ryan. While Keller’s NFL debut will likely come on special‑teams assignments, the coaching staff has indicated that his development will be closely monitored throughout training camp.
Mathis’ release does not preclude a return to the Jets’ practice squad or a signing elsewhere, as teams often revisit released players as injuries arise. His experience across multiple NFL teams could make him an attractive depth option for clubs seeking a rotational linebacker.
The roster adjustment comes as the Jets continue to evaluate talent ahead of the 2024 preseason. Adding undrafted talent like Keller while trimming the roster reflects a broader league trend of maximizing cost‑effective depth. For the African football audience following the NFL, the move highlights the opportunities available for collegiate stand‑outs from smaller programs to secure NFL contracts through minicamp performances.
The Jets will integrate Keller into offseason workouts and will further assess his fit during the upcoming training camp. His progress will be watched by both New York fans and international observers eager to see how undrafted prospects adapt to the professional level.
