NY Jets sign rookie OL Alijah Vera-Tucker
The New York Jets have announced the signing of rookie offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker.
AVT, as he is affectionately known, was the second-highest rated offensive lineman in the 2021 Draft Class, according to Pro Football Focus. Vera-Tucker allowed only 5 sacks, 8 quarterback hurries and 3 quarterback hits across 975 total snaps at USC.
The former USC standout was the Jets second pick in the draft (no.14 overall) behind quarterback Zac Wilson who, along with second-round receiver Elijah Moore, remains unsigned.
Jets GM Joe Douglas spoke glowingly about their new quarterback-protector, revealing Vera-Tucker was a lot higher on their draft board than where he was selected.
"We felt we had a unique opportunity to get a top-10 player in our minds as our board was stacked,” Douglas said.
"To go up and get a guy like Alijah Vera-Tucker, a player that has started at tackle, has started at guard and has been highly productive at both. That versatility and that production is something we really value."