Former New York Giants safety Jalen Mills made headlines on September 23 when it was reported that he has joined the New York Jets’ practice squad. ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter broke the news on X, highlighting that the 30-year-old Mills, previously with the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles, has accumulated 406 tackles throughout his NFL career. After spending parts of the offseason with the Giants, Mills has now transitioned to the Jets.
Mills initially signed with the Giants earlier this year, with expectations that he would contribute as a veteran safety and provide depth in the nickel position. However, he struggled to maintain his health due to a non-football-related injury that hampered his ability to participate in training activities. As the offseason progressed, Mills faced challenges returning to the field. Ultimately, when he was fit to resume play, the Giants decided to release him, opting instead to invest in younger talent during training camp and the preseason.
The Giants’ decision to part ways with Mills was influenced by the emergence of several promising prospects. Notably, second-round draft pick Tyler Nubin, seventh-round pick Gervarrius Owens, and undrafted rookie Alex Johnson impressed the coaching staff, making Mills’s position on the roster increasingly untenable. These younger players showcased potential that the team felt would better serve their future, leading to Mills’s exit.
In addition to the news about Mills, September 23 also brought other updates regarding the Giants. Reports indicated that the team conducted workouts for four tight ends: Teagan Quitoriano, Armani Rogers, Stephen Sullivan, and Joel Wilson. This suggests that the Giants are actively seeking to bolster their roster, particularly in the tight end position, as they prepare for the upcoming challenges of the season.
The addition of Mills to the Jets’ practice squad could offer him a fresh start and a chance to reinvigorate his career. With his experience and skills, he could provide valuable support to the Jets’ secondary, especially as they navigate the rigors of the NFL season. Meanwhile, the Giants are focusing on developing their younger players, reflecting a strategic shift towards building a more dynamic and versatile team for the future.
Mills’s journey illustrates the ever-changing landscape of the NFL, where player transitions are common, and teams continuously seek to adapt and evolve. As he joins the Jets, both Mills and the organization will be looking to make the most of this new opportunity, while the Giants will be keen to see how their investment in youth pays off as the season progresses.