The New York Jets are excited for a strong 2023 season, with their first-rounder Alijah Vera-Tucker slated to be a rock-solid starter at guard. The versatile Vera-Tucker, who was taken at No. 14 in 2021 out of USC, is looking to bounce back after a triceps injury that required surgery last year. He has been working hard to make a full return, and he will be able to showcase his skills in the upcoming preseason training camp.

Alijah Vera-Tucker made a name for himself as a rookie, taking 1,026 offensive snaps across all 16 games in the 2021 campaign. Being mostly used as a left guard, he also played at right guard and even on both tackle spots- proving his versatility. The young player was ultra-reliable, only missing time due to injury in his 7th start vs Broncos. His virtuosity and talent caught the eye of Jets’ general manager Joe Douglas, who gave positive feedback during the NFL Combine and recently praised the progress Vera-Tucker has made, along with Breece Hall and Mekhi Becton.

Moreover, his confident and enthusiastic tone during an earlier press conference is a testament to Vera-Tucker’s remarkable dedication and commitment to returning in prime shape. As a third-year pro, heading into the 2023 NFL preseason with 23 starts (and two positions under his belt), Vera-Tucker is a confident and authoritative presence on the offensive line. For him, it doesn’t matter where he plays, as his main priority is always to help the team, but Jets’ head coach Robert Saleh hints that he will most likely line up as a right guard.

Jets’ fans and football lovers, in general, eagerly wait to see what Alijah Vera-Tucker will bring to the table in the upcoming season, and everyone is cheering for his successful return to form.