The Jets traded away one 2021 first-round pick this week, but they made a move to keep another around longer.
The team has decided to exercise the fifth-year option on guard Alijah Vera-Tucker’s contract, general manager Joe Douglas announced Saturday. Vera-Tucker was drafted No. 14 overall in 2021.
He has been a high-level player when healthy but has suffered season-ending injuries in back-to-back years in October. That was the only reason picking up the option was even a question.
Vera-Tucker is currently recovering from surgery to repair his Achilles tendon but is expected to be ready for the season.
After moving around the offensive line in the last two years, the plan is for him to only play right guard this season.
The Jets traded his fellow 2021 first-round pick Zach Wilson this week to the Broncos.