NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero announced that the Jets have signed Kene Nwangwu to their practice squad. Nwangwu, who was with the Minnesota Vikings from 2021 to 2024, did not make the Vikings’ final roster in August. The New Orleans Saints tried to claim him but he failed his physical, leading to his release.
Jets Add a Proven Return Specialist
Nwangwu, 26, is known for his explosive return capabilities. He earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2022 as a kick returner for the Vikings, showcasing his skill with 920 kick return yards and a touchdown.
“Though Nwangwu has had limited opportunities as a running back, with only 33 touches in his NFL career, he has made a significant impact on special teams,” Yahoo Sports’ Alex Smith noted. “He scored two kickoff return touchdowns as a rookie and was recognized as one of the league’s top return specialists.”
Nwangwu, drafted in the fourth round by the Vikings, has primarily been a return specialist rather than a traditional running back, recording only 27 rushes for 88 yards and six catches for 30 yards in his career.
Jets’ Strategic Move Amid Changing Kickoff Rules
With the NFL’s recent changes to kickoff rules, the need for elite returners has become more pronounced. The Jets had previously signed former All-Pro returner Tarik Cohen, who impressed in the spring but retired unexpectedly during training camp.
In response, the Jets opted to explore other options and have now brought in Nwangwu. This move represents a low-risk, high-reward scenario: if Nwangwu does not meet expectations, the team can easily move on. However, if he demonstrates his return prowess, he could become a key asset for the Jets in the 2024 season.
The timing of Nwangwu’s signing, just hours before the Jets’ game against the San Francisco 49ers, raises questions about whether he will be elevated from the practice squad for the game. The Jets previously evaluated several return candidates during preseason, including Brandon Codrington, Malachi Corley, Isaiah Davis, and Xazavian Valladay. Codrington was traded to the Buffalo Bills before final roster cuts, while Valladay remains on the practice squad and Corley and Davis are on the 53-man roster.
The addition of Nwangwu could prove to be a pivotal move for the Jets as they continue to refine their special teams.