A Deeper Look at the Recent Drama of the 2024 Jets Draftee
As the New York Jets draw nearer to the start of the 2025 regular season slate, it’s time to start looking at potential candidates to cut from the team. After a rough training camp and preseason, wide receiver Malachi Corley is increasingly likely to get cut from the team in only his second NFL season. Last season, the Jets traded up in the third round to draft Corley out of Western Kentucky. In his four years with the team, Corley set the school record for receptions with 259, and had 2,943 yards and 29 touchdowns. Corley was described by analysts as the steal of the draft, and it seemed like he had a bright future with the team.
Last season, Corley only totaled three catches for 16 yards. Although the former coaching regime adored Corley, he only appeared in nine games, and his stats weren’t very impressive. This preseason was anything but smooth for Corley. While he does have eight receptions and a touchdown during his game appearances, the drama behind the scenes was rocky for Corley. Recently, reports have come out about Corley’s antics on and off the field, mostly having to do with his attitude towards other teammates. Last season, Corley refused to play special teams because he thought he had the ability to become a starting receiver. This immaturity and entitlement damaged his reputation early, leaving him out of many games.
In addition to this report, Corley also did not want to give up his number 17 when the Jets traded for Davante Adams next season. While Adams offered Corley $20,000 for the number, Corley counted with a $120,000 offer. If his early-season attitude wasn’t the reason Corley was on the outs, this issue could have been a big reason. While fans hoped Corley would be able to turn it around with a new coaching regime, especially one preaching accountability, Corley just hasn’t been able to show that he is a changed player. While the Jets may not have many capable receivers on the team currently, keeping Corley on the active roster would completely change the dynamic of the team, especially for a team trying to change the culture and be different this season. While the Jets are no strangers to receiver drama, Corley’s situation feels different. It was never about talent, but rather a rookie with a mindset that he didn’t have to face the normal grind of a rookie. While only time will tell if Corley is, in fact, released, the chances of this happening seem more likely than not.
