During what would ultimately be their final draft with the New York Jets, former head coach Robert Saleh and then-general manager Joe Douglas received widespread acclaim for landing what many considered the “steal of the draft” in the third round.
Retired five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. gave that label to Malachi Corley, the Western Kentucky wideout taken with the 65th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Over the previous two college seasons, only three receivers had more receiving yards than Corley: Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State), Malik Nabers (LSU), and Rome Odunze (Washington).
All three were selected within the top 10 picks of the first round, and despite Corley’s impressive production, 11 wide receivers were drafted ahead of him.
From Draft Steal to Draft Bust in One Season
“Corley’s knack for gaining yards after the catch isn’t just about dodging defenders,” wrote Glenn Naughton of JetNation at the time. “He has a strong lower body, allowing him to absorb contact, break tackles, and produce explosive plays.”
Naughton likened Corley to Deebo Samuel, the former 49ers star now with the Washington Commanders. Jets head coach Robert Saleh and GM Joe Douglas were so high on Corley that they traded up seven spots with the Carolina Panthers to make sure they could draft him.
However, Corley’s rookie season was underwhelming—he was targeted only six times, catching three passes for 16 yards and no touchdowns.
Now, following last weekend’s Jets rookie minicamp, reports suggest that Arian Smith, a fourth-round pick from Georgia, was so impressive that Corley might not even make the team’s final roster.
New Head Coach and GM Have No Attachment to Corley
“Smith is doing what Corley failed to do as a rookie — making a strong impression on the coaching staff during practices,” wrote Nick Faria of JetX. “Dubbed the ‘YAC King,’ Corley will need to have an outstanding showing during OTAs and training camp to secure a roster spot, even if that means contributing on special teams. Smith has clearly stood out over the past few days, which spells bad news for Corley. With a new front office that didn’t draft him, Corley must prove he deserves to stay.”
Head coach Robert Saleh was let go on October 8 after a disappointing 2-3 start to the season. The Jets then lost five of their next six games, which ultimately led to general manager Joe Douglas being fired as well.
The 2025 NFL Draft, where Smith was selected, was overseen by new GM Darren Mougey — previously the Broncos’ assistant GM — and head coach Aaron Glenn, formerly the Lions’ defensive coordinator.
John B, host of the Locked On Jets podcast, echoed these concerns during Friday’s episode, saying he believed Corley — who is on a four-year, $6.07 million rookie deal — is in real danger of being cut.
“Is Corley’s spot in jeopardy? I think it is,” he said in response to a listener. “Even though the Jets don’t have a deep receiver room, they have several players who are virtual roster locks.”
According to the host, Garrett Wilson is a sure thing, being the team’s only proven talent at the position. Allen Lazard recently restructured his contract to stay, and veteran Josh Reynolds joined in free agency.
None of those three are expected to be cut. Tyler Johnson brings value as depth, and Smith — a fourth-round pick showing early promise — is all but guaranteed a place.
With those five receiver spots essentially filled, Corley now looks like the odd man out.
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