Jets Hit Jackpot; Rookie Emerging As New York's 'Breakout Player'
The New York Jets are in a very tough spot right now. They're the only winless team in football through Week 5 after suffering a crushing loss to the Dallas Cowboys last week. This comes after close losses to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, alongside a blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills.
There are a lot of players struggling for the Jets. The defense has been gashed every week so far. The cornerback room has been crushed by opposing wide receivers and they don't seem to be getting any better. They haven't been able to rush the passer with much success, either.
There are a few solid players on the team, including Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, but for the most part, it's been struggles for New York.
Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon recently listed rookie offensive tackle Armand Membou as the Jets' biggest "breakout player" through the first few weeks of the season.
Armand Membou is proving doubters wrong with Jets
"The same goes for the guy picked three spots later," Gagnon wrote. "Membou has allowed just one sack and one QB hit in five games at right tackle for the Jets."
When the Jets drafted Membou, they were hit with some heavy backlash. A lot of analysts and members of the media didn't believe Membou was worthy of being taken at No. 7 in the first round. The Jets could have taken a quarterback, wide receiver, edge rusher, or tight end, but they ended up going with Membou.
Early in the year, this has looked like quite a steal. If there was a redraft, it's likely that Membou goes somewhere in the top six picks. He began his career matched up with superstar edge rusher TJ Watt. Membou won the matchup more often than he lost, helping give the Jets offense a chance to make waves against the Steelers.
Over the last few weeks, Membou has been one of the lone bright spots. While Justin Fileds tends to hold onto the ball longer than most, the rookie right tackle has kept him upright.
This was a steal of a pick for the Jets. Membou's future in New York looks very bright.
BREAKING NEWS: Baker Mayfield Signs Lifetime Deal with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have sent shockwaves across the NFL world with a historic announcement that will be talked about for decades. Team President Darcie Glazer Kassewitz has confirmed what is already being called
In an unprecedented move, the Buccaneers and Mayfield have agreed to a lifetime commitment, ensuring that the fiery quarterback who revitalized Tampa Bay’s offense will never wear another NFL uniform. Financial terms were not disclosed in full, but early reports suggest this is the most groundbreaking agreement in league history, dwarfing previous record-breaking contracts both in size and in scope.
“This isn’t just about football,” Kassewitz said in her statement. “It’s about identity, stability, and a shared vision. Baker Mayfield embodies the toughness and passion that defines the Buccaneers. He’s more than our quarterback—he’s the face of this franchise for generations to come.”
Mayfield, who resurrected his career in Tampa after a turbulent few seasons in Cleveland, Carolina, and Los Angeles, has quickly become a fan favorite. His fiery personality, competitive spirit, and willingness to embrace challenges have endeared him to teammates and fans alike. The lifetime deal ensures that his legacy will be forever intertwined with the city of Tampa Bay.
For Mayfield, the announcement represents both security and validation. “When I came here, I just wanted a chance to prove myself again,” he said during a press conference packed with cameras and cheering fans. “This organization believed in me, and together we’ve built something special. I’m here for life, and I couldn’t be more proud to call myself a Buccaneer forever.”
The NFL community reacted swiftly, with analysts debating what this means for the league’s future. Some praised the move as a bold commitment to stability in an era where player movement is common. Others questioned the risk of locking a franchise into one player for life, no matter the circumstances.
Yet for Tampa Bay, the message is clear: Baker Mayfield is not just their quarterback—he is their identity. With this monumental contract, the Buccaneers are betting that Mayfield’s passion, grit, and leadership will define not only the present, but the future of the franchise.
In Tampa, the Baker Mayfield era isn’t just beginning. It’s eternal.
