New York Jets Sign G Xavier Newman-Johnson to One-Year Exclusive Rights Tender
The New York Jets have officially signed offensive guard Xavier Newman-Johnson to a one-year deal under an exclusive rights tender, keeping the versatile lineman in green and white for at least another season.
Newman-Johnson, 25, originally joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Baylor University in 2022. After spending time with the Tennessee Titans, he found a new opportunity with the Jets, where he was able to contribute as a depth piece along the offensive line. While his playing time has been limited, his development has caught the attention of the Jets’ coaching staff, who value his ability to provide reliable support at multiple positions along the interior line.
The exclusive rights tender is a low-risk move for the Jets. It applies to players with fewer than three accrued NFL seasons and allows a team to retain a player’s rights at a league-minimum salary. Newman-Johnson had no negotiating power with other teams, as the tender prevents him from signing elsewhere once offered by his current team.
With the Jets looking to solidify protection for quarterback Aaron Rodgers heading into the 2025 season, offensive line depth remains a major focus. Injuries plagued the unit last year, exposing a lack of consistency and pushing backups into starting roles. Newman-Johnson’s return adds another layer of insurance, especially with his flexibility to play both guard spots and potentially center if needed.
Though Newman-Johnson hasn’t seen significant starting reps, his work ethic and versatility have made a positive impression. The coaching staff is expected to give him more opportunities to compete for a bigger role during training camp and the preseason.
This move is part of a broader effort by the Jets to improve their offensive line without overcommitting cap space. With free agency moves and the upcoming NFL Draft still to unfold, the team is looking to build a more durable and cohesive unit in the trenches.
If Newman-Johnson continues to progress and prove himself during offseason workouts, he could emerge as a valuable rotational piece—or even challenge for a starting role—on what the Jets hope will be a playoff-caliber roster in 2025.
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