The phrase “Next man up” is a time-honored cliche in sports. At any time, a significant injury can jeopardize a season. That’s why it’s important to always stay ready. You never know when you’ll be needed. Waiting for that call is the most frustrating aspect. However, in the case of New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood, it’s worth the wait.
Sherwood is in the midst of his fourth season on the Jets. The former Auburn Tiger was a backup behind CJ Mosley for most of his tenure. Alas, the injuries to CJ Mosley have forced the Jets to need someone to step up. Sherwood responded with a breakout season, ranking fourth in the league for tackles this season. He’s hoping to turn that production into a major raise this offseason.
Young Jets Linebacker Breaking Out This Season
The word disappointment doesn’t do justice for the Jets 2024 season. The much-anticipated return of Aaron Rodgers has led to a 3-10 record. A record-shattering 14th season without a playoff appearance. This includes the tenures of general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh ending mid-season. While the offense has struggled, the whole picture shows the Jets defense has also taken a step back. A once top-five defense in the league has given up an average of 23 points per game, 19th in the league.
The overhauling of the defensive line and the loss of Jermaine Johnson II in just week two was a massive blow for the unit. In addition, veteran linebacker CJ Mosley has missed time due to a herniated disk. Losing Mosley is a big blow considering the importance as a vocal leader in the linebacker unit. While Mosley has been injured, New York does have a silver lining. Fourth-year linebacker Jamien Sherwood had to step in his place. As a result, Sherwood is having a great contract year with this extra playing time.
Tackling machine
Before this season, Jamien Sherwood was a rotational linebacker. At first, Sherwood would see sporadic playing time after leaving Auburn. The fifth-round pick in 2021 was named a starter in the season opener vs the Carolina Panthers. Alas, Sherwood’s season was cut short due to a torn Achilles in Week 7, ending his rookie season before November. Since then, Sherwood spent the next two seasons continuing to learn in the wings. Suddenly, an opportunity emerged after CJ Mosley missed time due to turf toe & a herniated disk in his neck. Without hesitation, Sherwood stepped in and has thrived. This past Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, Sherwood finished with an impressive 18 combined tackles.
This season, Jamien Sherwood has a total of 125 tackles through 13 games. With 78 solo tackles, Sherwood sits fourth in the entire league in both categories. He only trails Eagles linebacker Zach Baun (129 tackles), Cardinals safety Budda Baker (132), and Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin (135). In addition, Sherwood also has two sacks and 11 stuffed yards. If Sherwood can maintain this level of production, he could finish within the top ten franchise history for combined tackles, needing only ten to surpass Neville Hewitt. He’s also thrived in coverage, giving up just 5.3 yards per reception, good for 13th in the league.
Will he cash in this offseason?
Jamien Sherwood’s season is going to lead to a big payday. He’s in the final year of his contract and should have plenty of suitors this offseason. At 25 years old, Sherwood will be entering the prime of his career in this next contract. His production could lead to a similar contract to Quincy Williams, if not more. Williams signed a three-year/$18 million extension with New York in 2023. However, due to Sherwood’s age, he could command more than $8 million in the open market.
A lot of unknowns for the Jets heading into 2025. Between a new head coach, general manager, and possibly a new quarterback; the team can’t afford to play games. With this change, New York will evaluate every facet to see who can remain with the young core. The team will look to continue to build with Quinnen Williams, Jermaine Johnson II, Will McDonald IV, and Sauce Gardner to revitalize this once-strong defense. If he continues this production, New York will need to bring back Jamien Sherwood by any means necessary.
Main Photo: [Vincent Carchietta] – USA Today Sports
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