Red Flags for Jets' First-Pound Pick as Kenyon Sadiq Hits Setback in Camp
Jets first-round TE Kenyon Sadiq hits another setback in his hernia recovery, with no clear timetable as preseason nears.
The New York Jets emerged as major beneficiaries of the 2026 NFL Draft. Beyond securing Texas Tech's edge rusher David Bailey at the top of the first round, the Jets added Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, cornerback D Angelo Ponds, and quarterback Cade Klubnik later on. These early-round selections promise several Day 1 impact players for the struggling franchise.
Among these, Sadiq stood out as the most promising pick. Drafted as the top-rated tight end prospect, he drew comparisons to Arizona Cardinals' All-Pro Trey McBride following his impressive 4.39 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. At Oregon, Sadiq accumulated 560 yards and eight touchdowns on 51 receptions, averaging 11.0 yards per catch.
He earned second-team All-American honors and was poised to provide Geno Smith with a reliable pass-catching option upon joining the team. However, just one week into the Jets' training camp, Sadiq faced another setback. He underwent hernia surgery in May but participated in New York's first three practices as part of a maintenance program.
Following a rest day, he missed practice on Tuesday due to a minor setback, according to head coach Aaron Glenn. While Glenn expressed confidence that Sadiq would be ready for Week 1, the uncertainty surrounding his recovery has raised questions about the rookie's immediate impact. The Jets' preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is scheduled for Friday, August 14, at MetLife Stadium, with their regular-season kickoff against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, September 13, at Nissan Stadium.
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