Jaylen Key’s ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ Status Doesn’t Reflect NFL Potential

The New York Jets are hoping that their latest selection, Alabama safety Jaylen Key, could be a hidden gem in this year’s NFL Draft. As the final pick of each round, dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant,” there weren’t many expectations for previous choices. However, last year’s Mr. Irrelevant, Desjuan Johnson from the Los Angeles Rams, managed to record two sacks in his 11 games and even played a significant role in their final game of the regular season. Key may face low hopes, but he can look forward to an invitation for himself and his family to Newport Beach, California, where they will enjoy golfing, Disneyland visits, and other luxuries as part of being Mr. Irrelevant’s prize package every year. Although this title does not show its relevance at first glance, previous “Mr. Irrelevants” have proven that it is more significant than many assume as NFL teams scoop up free agents long after the draft closes its curtains on Day 3. In a remarkable turnaround for last year’s Mr. Irrelevant Brock Purdy, he has led his team to an NFC title game and Super Bowl appearance following multiple injuries in San Francisco. Since taking over as starting quarterback, Purdy boasts a phenomenal win-loss ratio of 21:6 and earned him recognition through selection into the Pro Bowl and even securing fourth place during voting for the Most Valuable Player Award (MVP). Teams continue to add undrafted players post draft day.