Florham Park, NJ—-The New York Jets wrapped up a disappointing 2024 season with a 5-12 record, but they took a major step toward revamping their offensive line on Thursday night.
With the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jets selected Missouri offensive tackle Armand Membou, marking the second consecutive year they’ve used their first-round selection on a tackle. Membou is expected to immediately step in at right tackle, filling a crucial need opposite last year’s first-rounder, left tackle Olu Fashanu.
“He’s a perfect fit for us,” said new Jets head coach Aaron Glenn. “His athletic traits are elite. He’s got that mean streak you want, he’s tough, and he fits the identity we’re building on offense. When it was our turn to pick, there was no hesitation—he was our guy.”
Membou, 21, started for three seasons at right tackle for Missouri. The Jets met with him formally at the NFL Combine and brought him in for one of their top-30 prospect visits in Florham Park. As the team spent more time with him, they were drawn not just to his on-field ability, but his mindset.
Coach Glenn even compared Membou’s demeanor to that of Lions star Penei Sewell, one of the league’s premier right tackles. “The way they carry themselves is almost identical,” Glenn said. “That attitude, that confidence—it draws you in. Then you watch how he moves, how he plays, and you’re sold. Getting to know the person sealed it for us. It all came together.”
Membou, who had several FaceTime conversations with the Jets staff in the lead-up to the draft, said he had a strong sense he’d end up in New York. He praised Glenn, calling him a “cool-ass dude,” and expressed excitement about joining a young, talented offensive line. All five expected starters are in their 20s, with four of them drafted in the first two rounds.
The right tackle position became a glaring need after veteran Morgan Moses departed in free agency to join the Patriots. Membou is confident he can be the solution.
“They’re getting a mauler—no doubt,” Membou said. “I bring it in the run game and I’m locked in on protecting the quarterback. Consistency is my focus.”
Membou was the second offensive tackle off the board, following LSU’s Will Campbell, who was selected by the Patriots at No. 4. When the Jets found themselves choosing between Membou and Penn State tight end Tyler Warren at No. 7, the decision was simple.
Glenn pointed to his time coaching in New Orleans and Detroit, where investing high picks in the offensive line laid the foundation for team success. The Jets are hoping Membou helps do the same in New York.
