The New York Jets wide receiver room is certainly going to give coaches some tough decisions this season. Garrett Wilson, Mike Williams, Allen Lazard, and Malachi Corley are obviously your locks to stick. The number of receivers the Jets opt to keep will obviously determine how many spots are left after that, but they’re sure to have more names they like than slots available.
Dec 24, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Jason Brownlee (16) scores a receiving touchdown during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Even if the Jets were to carry seven, which is a big number, that would put three spots up for grabs. The next tier of, let’s say, “likely but not a lock” would include Jason Brownlee, Xavier Gipson, Malik Taylor and Irv Charles. While Charles has shown little as a receiver at the pro level, his coverage on special teams last season is what allowed the team to part with pro bowl cover man Justin Hardee. Letting him walk would be a surprise.
Then there’s the final tier which includes a name that may have bumped himself up to the middle of the pack with his performance in the team’s Green and White scrimmage the other day.
Undrafted rookie free agent Hamze El-Zayat, who we thought would see more reps once Xavier Gipson was set to miss time didn’t just get reps, but he got them with the starters and made several impressive catches with Aaron Rodgers under center. That counts for something.
Joining El-Zayat in that bottom tier of the Jets wide receiver room are undrafted speedster Tyler Harrell, a big target in the 6′ 3” Lance McCutcheon and the recently signed Isaiah Winstead. El-Zayat would have to have the best shot, but still has to show he can get it done in game situations against another opponent.
If he keeps doing what he’s doing then he’ll have a shot, but either way he’ll have plenty of competition, and that’s a very good thing.
