The 2024 NFL Draft presented a pivotal opportunity for the New York Jets to secure some game-changing talent, and General Manager Joe Douglas wasted no time in addressing key areas of need for the team’s roster.
While the Jets opted for offensive tackle Olu Fashanu with their first-round pick, they were determined to bolster their receiving corps in the middle rounds. In a strategic move, the Jets traded up seven spots in the third round to select Western Kentucky wide receiver Malachi Corley at No. 65. Known for his prowess after the catch, Corley has dubbed himself the “YAC King,” hinting at his ability to make explosive plays once the ball is in his hands.
Ian Valentino of the 33rd Team highlighted Corley’s landing spot with the Jets as one of the best in the draft. Drawing comparisons to Randall Cobb, a former teammate of Aaron Rodgers with the Green Bay Packers and the Jets, Corley’s skill set aligns well with the offensive scheme under Nathaniel Hackett. With players like Garrett Wilson and Mike Williams already in the fold, Corley adds another dimension to the Jets’ arsenal of playmakers.
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 215 pounds, Corley possesses the strength and ball-carrying ability to excel on screens and quick-hitting routes, allowing him to exploit open space and rack up yards after the catch. His style of play mirrors that of Deebo Samuel, making him a versatile threat in the Jets’ offensive game plan.
Valentino emphasized Corley’s potential impact on the Jets’ depth chart, noting that beyond Wilson and Williams, the team lacks significant depth at the wide receiver position. Competing with players like Allen Lazard, Xavier Gipson, and Jason Brownlee for playing time, Corley is poised to carve out a significant role in the Jets’ offense.
Corley’s track record at Western Kentucky speaks volumes about his playmaking ability. Accumulating 253 catches for 2,968 yards and 29 touchdowns over 40 games, Corley led all college receivers in yards after catch (YAC) since 2022, underscoring his knack for turning short receptions into substantial gains.
With Corley’s arrival, the Jets aim to inject a dynamic playmaker into their offense, complementing the skill sets of their existing receiving corps. If Corley can emulate Cobb’s impact alongside Rodgers in Green Bay, he has the potential to emerge as a valuable asset and a catalyst for the Jets’ offensive resurgence in the seasons to come.