Entering into the 2025 NFL Draft, it seemed clear that the New York Jets had one man on their mind: Armand Membou. The Jets landed Membou with the No. 7 overall selection in the draft, solidifying their offensive line.
The former Missouri Tiger joins a youthful and fortified line, flanked by young stars such as Olu Fashanu and Alijah Vera-Tucker. Membou has been highly lauded by draft and college analysts for his technique, athleticism, and potential.
On top of his All-Pro potential, Membou is expected to make an instant impact, already penciled in as the starting tackle opposite of Fashanu. NFL.com's Gennaro Filice compiled his All-Rookie team of 11 rookies who he thinks will make an instant impact on offense. The lead tackle on the lead? Membou.
"Entering this past April’s draft, the Jets’ offensive line boasted a capable starter at four of the five slots." Filice wrote. "So, one year after the old regime used its last first-round pick on an athletic left tackle (Olu Fashanu), the new regime used its first first-rounder on a mauler to man the right edge."
Filice feels confident in Membou's physical tools, but also his technique. Membou isn't all flashy athletic and physical tests, but he's a legit protector in the pass game.
"At a touch over 6-4 and 332 pounds, Membou put on an impressive athletic display at the NFL Scouting Combine." Filice wrote. "But the 21-year-old’s no simple 'workout warrior,' as he spent the last three years making a name for himself in the SEC. Taking over as Missouri’s right tackle midway through his true freshman season back in 2022, Membou ultimately played 36 games (with 30 starts) for the Tigers, giving up a grand total of thee sacks, including zero this past season."
Membou has high expectations as a pass protector. But that's not his only job. As a tackle, he has to be able to lay down blocks and protect his running back - or a scrambling quarterback. And Filice thinks he's well equipped for the job.
"And in the ground game, he was a violent road-grader who routinely climbed to the second level to bury overmatched defenders -- this undoubtedly caught the eyes of new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, who are looking to build a stout rushing attack around quarterback Justin Fields." Filice continued, "Membou could be the final piece to an extremely promising offensive line."