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Shy Linebacker Breaks Out of Shell to Lead Jets' Defense
5 Aug
Summary
- Jamien Sherwood overcame shyness to become vocal leader of Jets' defense
- Earned $45M contract after breakout season as Jets' co-leader in solo tackles
- Studied film of top linebackers to improve his game during Achilles injury

In August 2025, Jamien Sherwood, the New York Jets' star middle linebacker, is poised to lead his team's defense after a breakout season in 2024. Just a few years ago, Sherwood was a shy high school player who struggled to communicate with teammates. However, through hard work and mentorship, he has transformed into the vocal leader of the Jets' defense.
Sherwood's journey began in 2017 when his coach caught him training alone at 6 a.m., just days after the high school season ended. This dedication foreshadowed Sherwood's tireless work ethic, which has been a key to his success. After being drafted by the Jets in 2021, Sherwood faced a setback with an Achilles injury, but he used the downtime to study film of top linebackers like Fred Warner and Bobby Wagner, learning how to play the position at a high level.
Sherwood's hard work paid off in 2024 when he replaced the injured C.J. Mosley and finished the season as the league's co-leader in solo tackles. The Jets rewarded Sherwood's performance with a three-year, $45 million contract, making him the centerpiece of their defense. As the "quarterback" of the defense, Sherwood is now responsible for relaying calls and being a vocal leader, a role he has embraced after overcoming his natural shyness.