Jets assure themselves of a roster advantage with Paschal Ekeji

The New York Jets certainly haven't guaranteed Paschal Ekeji a spot on the regular-season roster. They have, however, certainly improved his odds of sticking around for the long haul.

3As part of a flurry of roster moves at the beginning of rookie minicamp, they assigned Ekeji an International Player Pathway exemption.

By doing so, the Jets quietly secured additional roster flexibility entering training camp and the preseason. It’s one of those under-the-radar procedural moves that may not generate headlines nationally but could still prove valuable behind the scenes. For Ekeji, it means opportunity. For the Jets, it means options.

There's so much to focus on, an outstanding rookie class and quarterback Geno Smith's return, for instance. Advantageously, the NFL’s International Player Pathway program allows teams carrying a designated exempt player to temporarily operate with a 91-man offseason roster instead of the standard 90-player limit.

That additional slot belongs specifically to Ekeji. The Jets won't lose anything by keeping him around throughout camp. That distinction matters more than some realize. It also gives New York room to breathe.

The Jets have an opportunity to develop Ekeji without immediate pressure

Developmental prospects often find themselves battling uphill simply because roster math works against them. Every extra body in camp creates difficult decisions elsewhere. In Ekeji’s case, however, the Jets can spend additional time evaluating his progress without feeling pressure to sacrifice another player’s spot in the process.

That’s particularly important for international prospects transitioning to the speed, complexity, and physical demands of NFL football. The organization now has the freedom to take a longer view with Ekeji’s development instead of forcing immediate results.

Practice squad flexibility creates another advantage

The benefits don’t stop once preseason football ends. When final roster cuts arrive, the Jets can either place Ekeji on the initial 53-man roster or expose him to waivers like any other player. If he clears waivers, the International Player Pathway rules provide New York with yet another advantage.