The New York Jets inched closer to locking up their entire draft class Thursday, signing third-round pick Chuma Edoga, the team announced. With Edoga onboard, third overall pick Quinnen Williams is the only remaining Jets pick left unsigned.
Edoga, an offensive tackle, was the 92nd overall pick out of USC. The language regarding third round picks in the CBA is very vague, which is often why it takes them a little longer to sign.
As a USC product, Edoga has a lot of familiarity with Jets franchise quarterback Sam Darnold. Edoga started 12 games for USC while Darnold was the team's starting quarterback in 2017.
“I blocked for Sammy D in college,” Edoga said via Randy Lange of the team's official site, “and to block for him in the NFL, it's a blessing, a dream come true.”
Edoga's relationship with Darnold very well might have been part of the reason the Jets drafted him. He likely won't be asked to start as a rookie, but it wouldn't be surprising if he's called upon at some point. Edoga said he'll be ready and that he can play either tackle position, saying “wherever the coaches need me to play.”
Darnold said he's happy to be reunited with his former college teammate.
“I'm just really excited for him, just as a friend, for him to be able to get drafted where he was drafted and for us to take a chance on him, I think it's going to pay off for this organization in the future,” he said. “I see him really excelling in the NFL.”
Protecting Darnold and keeping him upright is the single most important thing for the Jets right now, and they understand that.
If Edoga can pass-block like he did at USC, he'll be seeing the field soon enough.
