Jets 2025 NFL draft grades: How the Armand Membou pick was viewed by experts

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After finishing the 2024 season with a 4-13 record and in third place in the AFC East, the New York Jets were awarded the seventh-overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft. With that selection, New York took offensive tackle Armand Membou.

Membou, 21, played high school football at Lee's Summit North in Lee's Summit, Missouri, before committing to the University of Missouri for the 2022 season.

Over three years with the Tigers, Membou appeared in 35 games and started 29 at right tackle. He also earned Second-team All-SEC honors for his performance this past year.

New York lost starting left tackle Tyron Smith to retirement and starting right tackle Morgan Moses to the New England Patriots this offseason, so they desperately needed to find someone to protect new quarterback Justin Fields' front and blind side.

With Olumuyiwa Fashanu likely moving back to left tackle and Membou never playing a snap on that side in his college career, the 2025 first-round pick will likely be named the team's starter on the right side as a rookie.

JETS DRAFT GRADES FOR ARMAND MEMBOU

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Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News: A-

"The Jets go back to the position of high need after taking Olu Fashanu at No. 11 overall last year. Membou helps fill a big need at right tackle with his powerful run blocking for a new more grounded Lions-adjacent offense with Justin Fields and Breece Hall under Tanner Engstrand."

Christian D'Andrea, USA Today: A-

"As the pre-draft process wore down, Membou and Campbell were the 1A and 1B of this year’s crop of blockers (with Texas OT Kelvin Banks not far behind). Ultimately, the Patriots opted for Campbell’s consistency and technique over Membou’s athleticism and more prototypical frame. That’s fine for New York. It got a blue-chip right tackle who can immediately slide into a starting role opposite Olu Fashanu to give the Jets franchise bookends along the offensive line.

Membou clocks in at 330 pounds but with minimal body fat and elite athleticism. He can get out in space and pancake linebackers. He can mirror speed rushes and repel power ones. Justin Fields may not be the long-term answer at quarterback, but pairing Membou with Fashanu will make it easy for the Jets to find one — whether that’s luring a veteran to New York or setting the stage for a rookie to grow from a comfortable pocket."

Pete Prisco, CBS: B-

"The Jets had to get a tackle to play on the right side, and this kid fits the bill. I just think he's a little raw and might take some time. The talent is there, but I preferred Kelvin Banks over Membou."

Gilberto Manzano, Sports Illustrated: B+

"To no surprise, Membou, one of the top-rated tackles, didn’t wait long to hear his name called. Membou is now set to fill the void the Jets have at right tackle after the departure of Morgan Moses.

Membou flourished as a three-year starting right tackle, earning second-team All-SEC honors in his final season at Missouri. In his 29 starts, Membou displayed patience and agility in pass protection. He also built a reputation for being a physical finisher in his run blocks. "