This afternoon, it was announced that the New York Jets signed rookie fourth-round pick, defensive end Micheal Clemons. According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, the contract is worth $4.4 million with a signing bonus of $896K. As is the case with rookie deals, Clemons is under contract with the Jets for the next four years through 2025.
The Jets drafted Clemons with their final pick of this past draft, the 117th overall selection. He was probably the biggest surprise pick of the class. The Jets did not have a need for an edge defender but clearly valued Clemons significantly.
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Physical and athletic ability
Physically, Clemons offers a ton of size at 6-foot-5, 270 pounds, and 34 7/8″ arm length. From an athletic perspective, Clemons tested well throughout the pre-draft process. He finished with a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 8.20. He showed great explosiveness with his 35″ vertical jump. Clemons also proved his solid get-off speed as he recorded a 1.65 10-yard split time.
As a pass rusher, Clemons wins with power, strength, a plan that consists of numerous moves, and good hand usage. His explosiveness, size, and toughness are all there for him to win.
His usage will be worth watching. It will be fascinating to see if Robert Saleh and Jeff Ulbrich look to utilize him across the front on both the edge and inside. Clemons has the frame to be deployed similarly to versatile defensive linemen John Franklin-Myers and Solomon Thomas. In the end, the Jets drafted Clemons to be an impactful pass rusher wherever he may play.
Clemons is an older prospect as he will turn 25 shortly before the start of the season. As a result, it is fair to expect some sort of immediate impact from him.
With this Clemons signing, the Jets now have five of their seven 2022 draft picks signed. Now, agreeing to terms with Breece Hall and Max Mitchell is all that is left for the Jets with their exciting rookie class.