nbcsports
The New York Jets announced Tuesday that they have signed offensive tackle Blake Freeland from the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad. In a related roster move, the Jets placed offensive lineman Max Mitchell on injured reserve. Additionally, the team released cornerback Tre Brown from injured reserve.
Freeland landed on the Bengals' practice squad after the Indianapolis Colts waived him on August 31. During the preseason, he took 144 offensive snaps across the Colts' three games. A product of BYU, Freeland was chosen by Indianapolis in the fourth round of the 2023 draft. As a rookie, he started nine games and appeared in 15 contests overall. In 2024, he saw action in eight games, recording 36 special teams snaps and 23 on offense. Freeland missed the entire 2025 season due to a fracture in his right leg.
Mitchell was diagnosed with a concussion during a Week 7 practice and has sat out the past two games. This season, he has played 22 special teams snaps over the first six weeks. Mitchell, who played collegiately at Louisiana, was selected by the Jets in the fourth round of the 2022 draft and has appeared in 51 games. Brown was placed on injured reserve on August 30.
Key Analysis
The Jets' decision to sign Freeland comes as they seek to bolster their offensive line depth following Mitchell's injury. Freeland brings experience from his time with the Colts, where he started nine games as a rookie, but he is returning from a significant leg injury that kept him out for the entire 2025 season. His addition provides potential tackle depth, though his health will be a key factor. Mitchell's placement on injured reserve further depletes the Jets' offensive line, and his absence will be felt on special teams as well. The release of Brown from injured reserve is a procedural move that opens a roster spot. Overall, the Jets are making roster adjustments to address immediate needs while managing injuries.
Originally reported by nbcsports.