Leon Washington has rejoined the Jets’ special teams unit.
No, not as a kick returner. Rather, Washington is the latest addition to Robert Saleh’s staff, as the Jets announced Wednesday that he is back with the franchise as a special teams assistant. Washington will work under Jets special teams coordinator Brant Boyer.
Washington spent the first four years of his career with the Jets after they made him a fourth-round pick out of Florida State in 2006. A two-time Pro Bowler and a first-team All-Pro in 2008, Washington also spent time with the Seahawks, Patriots and Titans before his career ended after the 2014 season.
A running back by trade, Washington tallied 2,271 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns to go along with 1,286 receiving yards and four scores in 126 games. But Washington made his mark as a feared return man, racking up 7,553 yards and eight touchdowns — tied for an NFL record — on 292 kick returns. Washington set several Jets records during his time in New York: kickoff return touchdowns (4), kickoff return touchdowns in a single-season (3 in 2007) and most all-purpose yards in a single season (2,337 in 2008).
He also had 1,793 yards on 181 career punt returns.
Now Washington will look to continue his coaching career in the same place his playing career began. Washington was with the Lions the last two years as part of the team’s William Clay Ford Minority Coaching Assistantship Program. He previously spent time with the Falcons and Jaguars through the Bill Walsh NFL Diversity Coaching Fellowship.
The Jets’ Team MVP in 2007, Washington will now look to help Saleh, Boyer and the Jets get back on track in 2021 as an official member of their staff.
