Jets’ Armand Membou pick just got praise from the last person fans wanted

Of all the people to weigh in on the New York Jets’ newest draft pick, this was probably not the voice fans were hoping to hear. Former general manager Joe Douglas, who was fired in December after years of inconsistent results, appeared on Fox Sports Thursday night to discuss the 2025 NFL Draft

Douglas called the Armand Membou pick “a really good first pick” for the Jets' new regime, complimenting both head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey.

It’s an endorsement that lands awkwardly, considering Douglas’ own track record, especially when it comes to drafting offensive linemen. Jets fans still remember Douglas’ first pick as GM: Mekhi Becton, a massive swing at left tackle who flashed early but ultimately flamed out due to injuries and inconsistencies.

While Douglas may have hit on Olu Fashanu in last year’s draft, that doesn’t erase years of questionable roster moves and missed opportunities, particularly up front. Hearing him praise Membou feels more ironic than reassuring.

Joe Douglas praises NY Jets' Armand Membou draft pick

Perhaps Douglas’ words might carry some unintended weight, though. If even the guy the Jets just moved on from can recognize the value of the pick, maybe it really was that obvious.

The difference now is that the vision feels clearer and the plan is more cohesive. Membou is a tone-setter for a front office trying to build something better than what came before.

The Jets made the decision to part ways with Douglas this past December after a disappointing six seasons with the organization. He finished his Jets career with an abysmal 30-64 record, failing to win more than seven games in any season with the organization.

The praise might not mean much coming from someone Jets fans no longer trust, but it still underscores how obvious this pick was. The Jets needed a plug-and-play right tackle to complete their offensive line, and they got just that.

This is the kind of pick that doesn’t need defending, especially not from the guy whose first swing at the position helped set the franchise back. Joe Douglas had his chance. Now it’s Darren Mougey’s turn, and so far, he seems to be off to a far better start.

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