With the Jets’ fifth-round pick, they selected inside linebacker Blake Cashman out of the University of Minnesota.
Cashman in the fifth round is a steal, as many consider him to be the third best ILB in this draft class. The Jets did not have a plaguing need at the position, but this pick all but confirms that Darron Lee will be on his way out. Cashman will also contribute on special teams and be a better backup than Neville Hewitt.
Let’s get to know the Jets’ newest pick.
From walk-on to team captain
From preferred walk-on to top linebacker prospect, Blake Cashman finds himself in rare territory.
Cashman found out he’d be on scholarship after the Gophers held an Easter egg hunt at their practice facility. When the players opened their eggs after the 30-minute search, they learned Cashman was getting a scholarship.
A team captain as a senior, Cahsman led Minnesota with 104 tackles last season. He also added 15 TFLs and 2.5 sacks.
Injury Concerns
Blake Cashman sat out Minnesota’s Quick Lane Bowl game due to multiple shoulder injuries over his career and to prepare for the NFL draft.
Cashman had surgery on both of his shoulders before the 2018 season and he just happened to have the best season of his collegiate career and tested very well. He will be ready to go once OTAs start, but his shoulders are an injury situation to monitor.
Elite Speed
Blake Cashman fits the bill as a hybrid inside linebacker because he has tremendous speed. Cashman is able to cover both running backs and tight ends, which gives the Jets some help in coverage and an upgrade over Darron Lee in that area.
He showed off his speed at the NFL Combine by running a 4.51 40-yard dash. Cashman has great speed for his position and the Jets can have him run sideline-to-sideline or down the field on special teams.
Minnesota Football in the Family
Blake Cashman’s father played football at St. Thomas University, a private school in Minnesota.
Cashman got preferred walk-on status at Minnesota after earning first team all-state honors as a senior. His high school, Eden Prairie High, won four straight state titles while Cashman was on the team.
The Cashman’s have played football in the Twin Cities for years. Now, he has an opportunity to prove himself in the biggest market in the country.
