NEW YORK - When you look at the numbers, Jamien Sherwood has looked the part of a quality starting linebacker for the New York Jets in 2024.
103 tackles, one pass defended, and two sacks tell the tale of a safety turned linebacker who has done a good job in replacing the injured veteran and leader C.J. Mosley.
Sherwood has managed to record an elite 72.8 grade per Pro Football Focus and has consistently been solid in coverage for most of the season. While the former Auburn has enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024, the rest of the defense has gone backward.
And some believe it's due to the absence of Mosley that is the cause of it.
Mosley has dealt with toe and neck injuries that have cost him most of the 2024 season. In his absence, New York's defense has gone from one of the best in the league in points allowed and yards allowed to 26th since Week 6.
While a big part of that could be the firing of head coach Robert Saleh, Sherwood still is thankful for the opportunities he has been given - even if it hasn't always been the smoothest of rides.
"It's just been a blessing in disguise, it's everything I've been working for," Sherwood said to the team's website. "Sadly, when C.J. got hurt, I was the next one to get my shot, I had to be ready. Regardless, I prepare every week like I'm going to be a starter, even though I might never touch the field. That's been my goal my whole time since I've been here."
Sherwood is entering the final year of his deal with New York. It will be up to whatever new executive is leading the team if they want to bring him back on an extension.
At the very least, though, the 24-year-old linebacker has done plenty to show why he's worthy of a full-time starting role next year.
