The New York Jets have re-signed tight end Jelani Woods to an undisclosed contract as of Thursday, continuing to bolster their roster ahead of the 2026 season. Woods, 27, originally joined the Jets last August after being claimed off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts, and this move reflects the team’s intent to maintain depth at the tight end position amid ongoing roster uncertainty.
Jelani Woods’ Journey and Role with the Jets
Woods has had a challenging professional trajectory since entering the NFL. The University of Virginia product was selected 73rd overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. During his rookie season, he played 15 games, two of which he started, catching 25 passes on 40 targets for 312 yards and three touchdowns. However, his momentum was derailed by injuries that sidelined him for the entire 2023 and 2024 seasons due to hamstring and turf-toe issues.
After being picked up by New York in 2025, Woods saw limited action, participating in just four games. On offense, he played 60 snaps and appeared on special teams for 12 snaps. His on-field production was minimal, with a single reception for four yards from three targets. Heading into the upcoming season, Woods is expected to remain behind Mason Taylor and Jeremy Ruckert on the Jets’ tight end depth chart, likely serving as the third option.
Recent Moves Shaping the Jets’ Roster
Breece Hall’s Franchise Tag and Future with the Team
Running back Breece Hall remains a focal point for the Jets’ 2026 plans. The franchise officially placed the franchise tag on Hall, locking him in for at least one more season at a salary of approximately $14.29 million. Hall, a former Iowa State standout and the team’s second-round pick in 2022, enjoyed a breakout year in 2025 with over 1,000 rushing yards, finishing with 1,065 yards and four touchdowns on 243 carries, alongside 36 receptions for 350 yards and one touchdown.
Despite the tag, both Hall and the Jets appear motivated to secure a long-term contract before the July 15 deadline, though no extension has been announced yet. The Arizona Cardinals, now coached by ex-Jets offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, have emerged as potential suitors should Hall reach free agency. With mixed reports circulating about the possibility of the Jets switching from a franchise to a transition tag—valued around $11.5 million—New York could also explore tag-and-trade options to manage salary cap space and roster structure effectively.
“there’s a current belief in league circles that the Jets eventually will apply the transition tag.”
?Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk
“the winds have been blowing in the direction of the New York Jets using the franchise tag on impending free-agent running back Breece Hall since the trade deadline.”
?Zack Rosenblatt, The Athletic
“would like to test free agency.”
?Zack Rosenblatt, The Athletic
Garrett Wilson’s Recovery and Role in 2026
Wide receiver Garrett Wilson, the Jets’ top pass-catcher, is expected to return from a knee injury that ended his 2025 season early. Prior to his shutdown, Wilson caught 36 passes on 59 targets, accumulating 395 yards and four touchdowns. At 25 years old, Wilson was on pace for a career-best in targets and production before the injury.
Looking forward, Wilson faces uncertainty due to the absence of a confirmed starting quarterback and Hall’s unclear status. Regardless, his talent secures his position as at least a fringe WR1 in dynasty leagues, though offensive struggles may temper his upside.
Acquisition of T’Vondre Sweat and Defensive Adjustments
The Jets strengthened the interior defensive line by acquiring nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive end Jermaine Johnson. Sweat, a University of Texas product drafted in the second round of 2024, posted 34 tackles and two sacks in 12 games despite missing several early-season contests with an ankle injury. At 24, his addition aims to address interior pressure and run defense challenges.
Jermaine Johnson, 27, who suffered an Achilles tendon tear in 2024, had a solid 14-game season in 2025, earning three sacks and multiple tackles for loss. He is set to play on his fifth-year option in 2026, adding to a defensive front undergoing noteworthy changes.
Emerging Wide Receiver Options Including Adonai Mitchell
The Jets also increased depth at the wide receiver position by bringing in Adonai Mitchell from the Colts during the 2025 trade deadline. Mitchell, 23, tallied 24 receptions for 301 yards and two touchdowns in just eight games with New York, showcasing his potential as a consistent offensive contributor. He played over 80% of offensive snaps in six of those contests, averaging seven targets per game.
With Wilson returning from injury and Mitchell’s rising role, the Jets appear to have multiple candidates poised to share the receiving workload. Mitchell’s profile as a former second-round pick with demonstrated flashes could position him as the de facto WR2 for 2026.
Quarterback Situation Remains Unstable
Speculation surrounds the Jets’ quarterback situation heading into 2026, particularly regarding Justin Fields. Signed to a two-year, $40 million contract last offseason, Fields struggled throughout 2025 before being replaced by veteran Tyrod Taylor. Due to cap considerations and his on-field performance, there is speculation that the Jets could release Fields despite the associated dead-cap penalties.
Fields, 26, possesses notable rushing ability but has not developed as a passer as expected. The uncertainty around the position makes the Jets’ offensive outlook turbulent, possibly impacting key skill players like Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson.
Running Back Depth and Isaiah Davis’ Role
Isaiah Davis, a second-year running back, contributed 422 total yards on 64 touches across all 17 games in 2025. Despite his efficiency, his limited role was a disappointment considering teammate Braelon Allen’s injuries. Should Hall depart in free agency, Davis could see increased opportunities; otherwise, he is likely to compete with a healthy Allen for carries.
Davis’ fate depends heavily on Hall’s contract situation, with his roster status ranging from dynasty hold to potential cut candidate if current backfield configurations remain unchanged.
Mason Taylor’s Progress at Tight End
Mason Taylor, the Jets’ tight end selected ahead of Woods, concluded his rookie season recording 44 receptions for 369 yards and one touchdown over 13 games. His campaign was disrupted by a neck injury that sidelined him for the final four weeks of 2025. Though Taylor displayed flashes early on, he has yet to establish himself firmly among the league’s top tight ends.
The Jets’ overall offensive struggles complicate the evaluation, as the team ranked last in passing yards and touchdowns in 2025. Taylor enters 2026 just outside TE1 consideration, with his fantasy value and real-world impact hinging on both team improvement and personal development.
Implications of the Woods Re-Signing Within a Volatile Season Outlook
The Jets’ decision to bring Jelani Woods back signals a commitment to maintain depth amid considerable roster flux and uncertainty. Woods’ injury history and modest production place him well behind the team’s primary tight ends, indicating New York is investing in cost-effective options who could step up if necessary.
Combined with the franchise tag on Breece Hall, ongoing quarterback instability, and continued efforts to enhance both receiver and defensive talent, the Jets appear to be navigating a turbulent offseason. Their moves suggest a focus on preserving core assets and building flexibility given the unpredictable nature of their 2026 outlook.
As the offseason progresses, significant developments remain likely, particularly concerning Hall’s contract status and the quarterback competition. The impact of these decisions will define the Jets’ competitive trajectory and influence the fantasy football landscape for key players such as Wilson, Mitchell, and the tight ends Mason Taylor and Jelani Woods.
