​Throughout the summer, we’ll continue our countdown of the Jets’ roster, breaking it down player by player. Our next profile focuses on Malik McClain.
Name: Malik McClain
Number: 84
Year With Jets: 1st
Projected Role: Practice squad candidate
His 2025: Malik McClain delivered a personal best in college, posting 31 receptions for 441 yards in his final season at Arizona State. He went undrafted but signed with the Jets as part of the 90-man training camp roster.
What 2026 would look like if successful: McClain would need to stand out in both camp and the preseason enough to secure a spot on the practice squad. While anything can happen, the odds of him contending for the active 53-man roster appear slim given his college production.
Assessment: McClain was signed primarily for his physical tools rather than proven production. He stands 6’4” with notable straight-line speed, but much of his game remains a work in progress. He is somewhat raw as a route runner and hasn’t shown much versatility in matchup scenarios from college. His vertical route mastery existed, but his other options were limited, and he did not display significant slot play or inside-outside versatility.
There’s a possibility that McClain could respond to pro coaching and develop, but at present he faces an uphill climb to even secure a practice squad spot. If he can earn one, it would represent a positive development for his trajectory.
Odds of making the roster: Long shot (approximately 25%).