The New Orleans Saints’ signing of veteran offensive lineman Connor McGovern from the New York Jets practice squad flew under the radar.
McGovern was signed by the Saints on Friday, October 4, and quickly saw action in Week 5, playing in the Monday Night Football game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
McGovern’s departure from the Jets created an opening on their practice squad, which the team filled by signing offensive lineman Alec Lindstrom. Additionally, the Jets brought back 2024 NFL draft pick Jaylen Key to the practice squad, while releasing linebacker Anthony Hines to make room.
Jets Lose Key Backup With McGovern Departure
Jets fans had high expectations for their team’s roster heading into the season, though concerns arose over the depth at the backup center position. There were worries about Wes Schweitzer’s health, as the veteran had struggled with injuries.
When Schweitzer suffered a hand injury before the season opener and landed on injured reserve, the Jets’ interior offensive line depth became a pressing issue.
Many fans called for the team to re-sign McGovern, who played with the Jets from 2020 to 2023, starting in 55 games. Despite the public outcry, the Jets initially opted to stick with their in-house players.
However, they eventually brought McGovern back to the practice squad on September 11. He remained with the team for just under a month before the Saints signed him, leaving the Jets once again thin on the interior line.
Jets Add Familiar Faces, New Blood
Jaylen Key, the last pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, didn’t make the Jets’ 53-man roster but was initially placed on the practice squad. After being released on September 24, it wasn’t a shock to see the team bring him back as a developmental project with potential for the future.
Alec Lindstrom, the new addition, stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 300 pounds. He entered the NFL in 2022 as an undrafted free agent with the Cowboys after playing at Boston College.
Though he spent his rookie season on the practice squad, his campaign ended prematurely due to injury in November. In early 2024, Lindstrom played in the UFL with the Memphis Showboats and spent some time with the Los Angeles Rams during training camp, though he didn’t make their final roster.
Lindstrom is also the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons Pro Bowl offensive lineman Chris Lindstrom, and with NFL teams always needing depth on the offensive line, the Jets’ signing of Alec is a low-risk move with potential upside.
