Frank Reich proves his Kenyon Sadiq obsession was no draft smokescreen

The New York Jets opened up the 2026 season with a 23-10 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday afternoon. It was a failed revenge game for Robert Saleh and a much-needed victory for Aaron Glenn to open up his second season at the helm.

It didn't take long for the Jets' 2026 draft class to make an impact, which was headlined by the three first-round picks. David Bailey finished with six pressures and a sack, while Omar Cooper Jr. hauled in a big 30-yard reception on a 3rd & 9; two plays later, Kenyon Sadiq found the end zone on a three-yard end-around.

Sadiq also hauled in three receptions for 21 yards. Even after missing all of the offseason program and most of training camp due to hernia surgery, Frank Reich and the Jets wasted no time getting the rookie tight end involved.

Sunday gave Jets fans a peek at what Sadiq can bring to the table and also reinforced that Reich's interest in the Oregon product was real.

Kenyon Sadiq lived up to Frank Reich's hype in New York Jets debut

The Jets selected Sadiq 16th overall in April, between Bailey and Cooper, in the first round. After drafting Mason Taylor in the second round last year, Sadiq came in as another weapon on offense for New York.

Specifically, a weapon for Reich. The veteran offensive coordinator pounded the table for Sadiq throughout the draft process and ultimately got what he wanted.

Reich viewed Sadiq as someone who can do multiple different things within the offense beyond what the prototypical tight ends bring to the table. The end around in Sunday's win proved that Reich is finding different ways to get the rookie playmaker the ball in his hands.

Looking back on Sadiq's career in college, he already showcased himself in that type of role. The 21-year-old lined up in multiple spots, including inline tight end, slot receiver, and H-back.

In 42 career games played, Sadiq hauled in 80 receptions for 892 yards and eleven touchdowns. With a 4.39-second 40-yard dash time, the fastest by a tight end in NFL history, Sadiq can become a big-time weapon for Reich and the Jets.

Sadiq's athleticism, size, and versatility are all areas that Reich can utilize to set up a successful rookie campaign.

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