Offensive tackle Armand Membou is a cornerstone of the New York Jets’ offensive line rebuild. The first-round (7th overall) is expected to make an immediate impact up front. His mix of size, athleticism, and technique gives the Jets a premium player at one of the most important positions on the field.
Along with the huge expectations, Membou gets a fat paycheck. One so big he had to take a second look at the numbers to realize what he was getting, prompting an amusing reaction from the 21-year-old.
Membou Expected To Immediately Upgrade the Jets’ O-Line
In a clip shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the Jets on Friday, May 9, Membou was seen addressing the media. When he was asked about his contract, he said, “It was pretty cool…I looked at all them zeroes on the page, I didn’t realize how much money I was getting…but it was definitely a blessing for sure.”
Membou’s rookie deal has a lot of zeros. He gets a four-year deal worth $31.9 million, fully guaranteed, with a fifth-year team option. Not a bad way to find out you’re getting life-changing money.
"I looked at all them zeroes on the page, I didn't realize how much money I was getting" 🤣
Armand Membou on signing his rookie deal with the Jets: pic.twitter.com/nG6yvALU5O
— Jets Videos (@snyjets)
He’s been described as a mauler who possesses a rare combination of athleticism, technique, and nastiness that had scouts raving about him. With the Jets signing quarterback Justin Fields, there was a need for a lineman who can be dynamic and mobile. Membou ran a 4.91 40-yard dash at the combine, and is explosive off the line in running blocking
He has exceptional mobility for his size, which allows him to reach blocks at the second level. He’s got excellent footwork and balance in pass protection, allowing him to neutralize pass rushes off the edge, and his run blocking is also top tier. Membou is powerful at the point of attack and maintains his blocks through the whistle.
However, there are gaps in his game that he needs to plug. Membou needs to improve his hand placement to prevent defenders from being able to disengage from him and he has had the occasional lapse against elite competition. He’s incredibly strong (31 bench reps at the combine) but will need to work on being able to take on experienced bull rushers.
His pro comps have been Tristan Wirfs and Penei Sewell. He’s versatile and agile and can be deployed at any position along the offensive line. He’s also projected to be a reliable starter with enough upside to be a Pro Bowl player.
