Jets Claim Offensive Tackle Austin Deculus off Waivers, Release Tanzel Smart
Looking for any help they can get along the offensive line, the Jets have claimed tackle Austin Deculus off waivers from the Houston Texans. The 205th overall pick in the 2022 draft out of LSU, Deculus appeared in two games this season with one being against the Pittsburgh Steelers in which he earned a PFF grade of 62.6 on 38 snaps.
A right tackle in college, Deculus did see action on the left side with the Texans, including his week 4 appearance against the Pittsburgh Steelers. If the Jets feel he can play that spot in a pinch, having a versatile option at tackle would be a welcome addition for head coach Robert Saleh.
The 6′ 5” 321 pound Deculus has 34 3/8” arms and was projected by some to be a guard in the NFL due to what they viewed as limited mobility.
You can take a look at his NFL.com draft profile right here.
To make room for Deculus, the Jets parted ways with fan favorite defensive lineman Tanzel Smart.
Videos
Jets Leaks Could Have Massive Implications on 2025 Season