Jets Linebacker Jamian Sherwood Reflects on Season
ORCHARD PARK — Jamian Sherwood, a linebacker for the Jets, signed a three-year contract extension worth $45 million last March.
At that point, expectations weren’t particularly high for him. He transitioned from being mostly a backup to a vital part of the team’s defense.
This season has seen him struggle compared to last year, resulting in significant criticism.
Sherwood acknowledges the expectations that came with his new contract but insists he doesn’t feel undue pressure. “I wouldn’t say pressure, but there’s a lot expected of those who get paid well,” he explained. “I knew expectations were high. It was a mixed bag for me. I did some things well, but there were also many things I fell short on.”
According to Pro Football Focus, he ranks as the 35th linebacker out of 87 evaluated. Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom.
He still showcased strong performances against the run and was quite effective in tackling.
However, he openly admits to having difficulties in pass coverage, which has contributed to the Jets’ defensive struggles this year. His primary focus this offseason will be improving in that area. He wants to delve into route concepts, concentrate on footwork, and enhance his ability to recognize passing plays quickly.
This season, Sherwood seems to have often found himself with what his coach refers to as “the bad eye,” meaning he bit on run fakes and was misled by player motion.
“I realized that misjudging my focus was a key issue for me,” Sherwood said. “Improving pass coverage is my top priority this offseason.”
The financial implications for the Jets to let Sherwood go this offseason are significant, with dead money reaching $25 million if they cut him. Keeping him would mean a cap hit of $11.5 million, suggesting he will likely stay on the team.
Sherwood is determined to regain the form that led to his contract extension last year. “I believe I’m a capable player, but it’s one thing to say it and another to prove it through actions,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, the Jets are dealing with injuries this week. Running back Breece Hall (knee) and cornerback Brandon Stevens (neck) are sidelined.
Hall concluded the season with 1,065 rushing yards and four touchdowns and is set to hit free agency in March.
In preparation for their upcoming game, the Jets made several roster adjustments, bringing QB Hendon Hooker, DL Kingsley Jonathan, and OL Cole LeBao onto the active roster. Comparatively, TE Mason Taylor, RB Isaiah Davis, and OL Xavier Newman were placed on IR. RB Raheem Blackshear and DB Sam Womack were promoted from the practice squad. Additionally, three Jets players were fined for infractions during the game against the Patriots.
