Offensive lineman Connor McGovern is back with the New York Jets.
According to both sides, it just was a reunion that made sense.
McGovern, 31, appeared destined for retirement. Now he’s a member of New York’s practice squad after re-signing with the team following a tryout earlier this week.
McGovern played in New York from 2020 up until last season as the team’s starting center. An MCL and knee injury ended his 2023 season after seven games played.
On Thursday, McGovern told ESPN that despite telling family he was leaning toward retirement… he decided to keep himself in shape this offseason.
The Jets came calling and here we are–But why?
From McGovern’s perspective, he felt optimistic about Gang Green in 2024 like many. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers making his second debut this season, hopes are high, and McGovern did not want to be on the outside looking in.
“If or when this team goes to the playoffs and if I wasn’t helping in some capacity, I’d be pretty disappointed,” he said. “I had to come have another ride with this group and be a part of something special.”
As for the Jets, it made even more sense. Last week, New York put backup center Wes Schweitzer on injured reserve because of a hand injury.
Replacing Schweitzer with a familiar face was the objective, head coach Robert Saleh said.
Saleh’s explanation can be found in the clip below:
#Jets HC Robert Saleh said bringing back OL Connor McGovern was a ‘no brainer’:
‘Added depth to the roster, McGovern knows our system’ + Wes Schweitzer being on IR + ‘can play center or guard’ + ‘always been a great teammate & a locker room guy.’
🎥 @nyjets #JetUp pic.twitter.com/IkT9Kt0KgM
— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) September 13, 2024
