Fifth-year tight end Jelani Woods has become a notable performer in New York Jets training camp, demonstrating impact both on the field and within the locker room. This resurgence comes after a career hampered by injuries.
Woods was originally drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 when Frank Reich was the head coach. After being released by the Colts during training camp last year, he was claimed off waivers by the Jets. He appeared in four games for the Jets in the previous season, recording one reception.
Following a change in offensive coordinator, with Reich joining the Jets' staff, Woods, who was set to become a free agent, expressed a strong desire to return. "I think I called my parents and I was like let me see what the Jets want to do," Woods said. "Once my agent [worked it out] I said perfect, I can’t wait to get up there with coach Frank."
Woods is competing in a deep tight end group that includes first-round pick Kenyon Sadiq and 2025 second-round selection Mason Taylor. Beyond his own performance, Woods has also been instrumental in helping his teammates grasp Reich's offensive system.
Reich praised Woods' abilities, stating, "I love Jelani. I guess I love that whole room, but Jelani’s super talented and I obviously was a part of drafting him in Indy. He is, first of all, he’s an explosive blocker. He can block the point of attack. He’s long and he’s fast. People don’t realize how fast he is once he gets the ball in his hands. He’s dangerous with the ball in his hands, that’s what I remember from his college tape and even the one year we were together in Indy. When he catches the ball, he’s a big man and he can run. And he’s smart. Jelani is like wicked smart. And so, I think he has helped that tight end room learn certain aspects of this offense knowing what we want to do."