Adam Gase isn’t easily impressed, but he sure likes what former All-Pro guard Kelechi Osemele brings to the table.
Osemele was brought in by former general manager Mike Maccagnan before the start of free agency. The Jets were in dire need of an upgrade at left guard with James Carpenter departing for Atlanta, and so, Maccagnan struck a deal with Oakland. Now, not only is Osemele Sam Darnold’s self-proclaimed bodyguard, but he is also impressing as a mauler and a bully on the offensive line.
“He’s violent, he’s physical, he brings attitude,” Gase said following the Jets’ fourth practice of training camp. “Him and Brian Winters, I don’t know if I’ve been around two guards who have that mentality where they’re looking to be violent and aggressive off the ball.”
Osemele was thought of as collateral damage with the Raiders, sinking the team’s cap space while he was injured for most of 2018. Oakland gave up on him quickly, and now he has a chance to be a savior for the Jets offensive line.
Between Gase’s comments and the fact that Joe Douglas played a part in drafting him back when they were in Baltimore, it’s clear Osemele has people that believe in him within the Jets organization.
Osemele figures to be the missing glue on the Jets offensive line. Not only can he be a veteran voice and protector of Darnold, but he can also help improve the play of Kelvin Beachum and Jonotthan Harrison with his presence.
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