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The Jets' Latest Acquisition: Matt Slauson

Trends January 16, 2025

Who is Matt Slauson and what is his connection to the New York Jets?

Matt Slauson is a former American football guard who played in the National Football League (NFL) for eight seasons. He played college football at the University of Nebraska and was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft.

Slauson started 14 games for the Jets in his rookie season and quickly became a key member of the team's offensive line. He was a versatile player who could play both guard and center, and he was known for his physicality and toughness.

Slauson was a key member of the Jets' offensive line that helped lead the team to the AFC Championship Game in 2015. He was also a member of the Jets' team that won the AFC East in 2010.

Slauson was released by the Jets in 2019 after six seasons with the team. He signed with the Chicago Bears in 2019, but was released before the start of the season. He retired from the NFL in 2020.

Name	Matt Slauson
Born	September 20, 1987 (age 35)
College	Nebraska
Draft	2013 / Round: 6 / Pick: 198
Position	Guard
Years active	20132019
Teams	New York Jets (20132018), Chicago Bears (2019)

Matt Slauson's impact on the New York Jets

Matt Slauson was a key member of the New York Jets for six seasons. He was a versatile player who could play both guard and center, and he was known for his physicality and toughness. Slauson was a key member of the Jets' offensive line that helped lead the team to the AFC Championship Game in 2015. He was also a member of the Jets' team that won the AFC East in 2010.

Slauson's departure from the Jets in 2019 left a big hole in the team's offensive line. The Jets have struggled to find a consistent replacement for Slauson, and his absence has been a major factor in the team's struggles in recent years.

Matt Slauson Jets

Matt Slauson, a former American football guard, played for the New York Jets for six seasons. Here are eight key aspects of his career with the Jets:

Drafted in 2013: Slauson was drafted by the Jets in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Position: He played the guard position for the Jets.
Started 14 games in his rookie season: Slauson quickly became a key member of the Jets' offensive line.
Versatile player: He could play both guard and center.
Physical and tough: Slauson was known for his physicality and toughness on the field.
Key member of the 2015 AFC Championship Game team: Slauson helped lead the Jets to the AFC Championship Game in 2015.
Released in 2019: After six seasons with the Jets, Slauson was released in 2019.
Retired in 2020: Slauson retired from the NFL after the 2019 season.

Matt Slauson was a valuable member of the New York Jets for six seasons. He was a versatile and tough player who helped the Jets achieve success on the field. His contributions to the team will not be forgotten.

1. Drafted in 2013

This event marked the beginning of Matt Slauson's professional football career with the New York Jets. Being drafted by an NFL team is a significant milestone for any player, as it represents their official entry into the league and the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

Opportunity and Potential: Being drafted by the Jets provided Slauson with an opportunity to showcase his skills at the professional level and compete for a roster spot on an NFL team. It also signaled the Jets' belief in Slauson's potential as a valuable contributor to their offensive line.
Competition and Growth: Joining an NFL team means facing a high level of competition from other talented players. Slauson had to compete for playing time and prove his worth on the field. This competitive environment can foster growth and development, as players are constantly striving to improve and earn their place on the team.
Team Dynamics and Camaraderie: Becoming part of an NFL team involves integrating into a new group of teammates and coaches. Slauson had to establish relationships with his fellow offensive linemen and build chemistry on and off the field. This camaraderie and sense of belonging can contribute to a player's overall experience and success within the team.
Foundation for Success: Slauson's time with the Jets laid the foundation for his future success in the NFL. He gained valuable experience, developed his skills, and contributed to the team's achievements. These experiences shaped his career and helped him become a respected and reliable player in the league.

Overall, Matt Slauson's selection by the New York Jets in the 2013 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment in his career. It marked the start of his NFL journey and set the stage for his contributions to the team and the league as a whole.

2. Position

Matt Slauson's position as a guard for the New York Jets was a crucial aspect of his contributions to the team. As a guard, his primary responsibilities included protecting the quarterback from opposing defenders and creating running lanes for the running backs.

Playing guard requires a combination of physical strength, agility, and technical skill. Slauson possessed all of these attributes, making him a valuable asset to the Jets' offensive line.

Slauson's ability to effectively block opposing defenders was essential for the Jets' offensive success. He was responsible for creating space for the running backs to gain yards and protecting the quarterback from sacks and tackles. His strength and agility allowed him to engage with defenders and control them at the point of attack.

In addition to his physical abilities, Slauson was also a technically sound player. He understood the nuances of the guard position and was able to execute his assignments with precision. This allowed him to work effectively with his fellow offensive linemen to create a cohesive unit that protected the quarterback and paved the way for the running backs.

Overall, Matt Slauson's position as a guard for the Jets was a key factor in his success as a player and the team's overall performance. His physical strength, agility, and technical skill made him a valuable asset to the offensive line, and his contributions helped the Jets achieve success on the field.

3. Started 14 games in his rookie season

Matt Slauson's impressive performance in his rookie season with the New York Jets was a significant factor in his emergence as a key member of the team's offensive line. Starting 14 games in his first year is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication.

There are several reasons why Slauson's early success was so important for the Jets:

Immediate impact: Slauson's ability to step into a starting role and perform at a high level right away demonstrated his value to the team. He quickly became a reliable and trusted member of the offensive line, providing stability and protection for the quarterback and running backs.
Building a foundation: Slauson's strong rookie season laid the foundation for his future success with the Jets. He gained valuable experience and developed a strong understanding of the team's offensive system. This allowed him to continue to grow and improve in subsequent seasons.
Team success: The Jets' offensive line played a crucial role in the team's success during Slauson's tenure. His contributions as a starter helped pave the way for the Jets to achieve several notable accomplishments, including reaching the AFC Championship Game in 2015.

Overall, Matt Slauson's performance in his rookie season was a key factor in his development as a player and the success of the Jets' offensive line. His ability to start 14 games and make an immediate impact showcased his talent and potential, ultimately contributing to the team's overall achievements.

4. Versatile player

Matt Slauson's versatility as a player was a valuable asset to the New York Jets. He could effectively play both guard and center, providing the team with flexibility and depth along the offensive line.

Adaptability and Flexibility: Slauson's ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line allowed the Jets to adjust to different game situations and personnel changes. His versatility gave the team more options and made it harder for opposing defenses to predict the Jets' offensive strategy.
Increased Playing Time: Slauson's versatility increased his playing time and overall value to the team. He was able to fill in at different positions as needed, ensuring that the Jets always had a reliable and experienced player on the field.
Team Success: Slauson's versatility contributed to the success of the Jets' offense. His ability to play both guard and center helped the team maintain a consistent level of performance, even when injuries or other factors disrupted the starting lineup.

Overall, Matt Slauson's versatility as a player was a key factor in his success with the Jets. It allowed him to make a significant impact on the team, contribute to the offense's success, and showcase his value as a versatile and dependable offensive lineman.

5. Physical and tough

Matt Slauson's physicality and toughness were defining characteristics of his playing style and key factors in his success with the New York Jets.

Physical Strength: Slauson possessed exceptional physical strength, which allowed him to overpower opposing defenders and create running lanes for the team's running backs. His ability to generate power and drive through his blocks was crucial to the Jets' offensive success.
Aggressive Mindset: Slauson played with an aggressive mindset, consistently seeking to dominate his opponents at the point of contact. His tenacity and willingness to engage in physical battles made him a formidable presence on the offensive line.
Durability: Slauson's toughness was evident in his ability to withstand the rigors of the NFL season. He rarely missed games due to injuries, demonstrating his resilience and unwavering commitment to the team.
Leadership by Example: Slauson's physicality and toughness served as an inspiration to his teammates. His relentless effort and never-say-die attitude instilled a sense of confidence and determination throughout the Jets' offensive line.

In conclusion, Matt Slauson's physicality and toughness were integral to his success with the Jets. His ability to overpower opponents, play with aggression, and endure the physical demands of the game made him a valuable asset to the team and a respected figure in the NFL.

6. Key member of the 2015 AFC Championship Game team

Matt Slauson's contributions to the New York Jets were highlighted by his role as a key member of the team that reached the AFC Championship Game in 2015. This achievement underscores his significance to the Jets and the impact he had on their success during that season.

Elite Performance: Slauson's performance in the 2015 season was exceptional, showcasing his skills as a top-tier guard in the NFL. His ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes was crucial to the Jets' offensive success.
Offensive Line Cohesion: Slauson's chemistry with his fellow offensive linemen was a key factor in the unit's overall effectiveness. Their ability to work together seamlessly allowed the Jets to control the line of scrimmage and dictate the pace of the game.
Team Leadership: Slauson's experience and leadership were invaluable to the Jets, especially during the playoffs. His ability to motivate and guide his teammates contributed to the team's success and run to the AFC Championship Game.

Slauson's performance in the 2015 season cemented his status as a key member of the Jets and a respected player in the NFL. His contributions to the team's success, both on and off the field, made him an integral part of the Jets' journey to the AFC Championship Game.

7. Released in 2019

The release of Matt Slauson by the New York Jets in 2019 marked the end of an era for the veteran guard. After six seasons with the team, Slauson was let go as the Jets underwent a roster overhaul under new head coach Adam Gase.

Slauson's departure was a significant event for the Jets, as he had been a key member of the offensive line since joining the team in 2013. He started 14 games in his rookie season and quickly became a mainstay on the line, known for his physicality and toughness.

However, the Jets' decision to release Slauson was likely due to a combination of factors, including his age (32 at the time) and the team's desire to get younger and more athletic on the offensive line. Slauson's release also cleared salary cap space for the Jets, who were looking to make other roster moves.

Despite his release, Slauson's contributions to the Jets should not be forgotten. He was a valuable member of the team for six seasons and helped the Jets reach the AFC Championship Game in 2015. He was also a respected leader in the locker room and served as a mentor to younger players.

Overall, the release of Matt Slauson by the Jets in 2019 was a significant event for both the player and the team. It marked the end of an era for Slauson, who had been a key member of the Jets for six seasons. However, his contributions to the team should not be forgotten, as he played a significant role in the Jets' success during his time with the team.

8. Retired in 2020

Matt Slauson's retirement from the NFL after the 2019 season marked the end of an eight-year career in which he played for the New York Jets and Chicago Bears. His decision to retire came after six seasons with the Jets, where he established himself as a key member of the team's offensive line.

End of an Era: Slauson's retirement marked the end of an era for the Jets, as he had been a mainstay on the offensive line since joining the team in 2013. He was a key contributor to the team's success during that time, including their run to the AFC Championship Game in 2015.
Changing of the Guard: Slauson's retirement also signaled a changing of the guard on the Jets' offensive line. The team had been in the process of rebuilding the line in recent years, and Slauson's departure opened the door for younger players to step into more prominent roles.
Next Chapter: Slauson's retirement opened up a new chapter in his life, as he transitioned from playing football to pursuing other interests. He currently works as an offensive line coach at the University of Nebraska, where he is helping to develop the next generation of football players.

Slauson's retirement from the NFL is a reminder that even the most successful careers must come to an end. However, his contributions to the Jets and the NFL will not be forgotten. He was a valuable member of the Jets for six seasons and helped the team achieve success on the field. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of football players.

FAQs about Matt Slauson and his time with the New York Jets

Matt Slauson was a guard for the New York Jets from 2013 to 2018. He was a key member of the offensive line and helped the Jets reach the AFC Championship Game in 2015. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Slauson and his time with the Jets:

Question 1: What was Matt Slauson's role on the Jets?

Slauson was a guard on the Jets' offensive line. He was responsible for protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes for the running backs.

Question 2: How many seasons did Matt Slauson play for the Jets?

Slauson played for the Jets for six seasons, from 2013 to 2018.

Question 3: What was Matt Slauson's biggest accomplishment with the Jets?

Slauson's biggest accomplishment with the Jets was helping the team reach the AFC Championship Game in 2015.

Question 4: Why did Matt Slauson leave the Jets?

Slauson was released by the Jets in 2019 as part of a roster overhaul under new head coach Adam Gase.

Question 5: What is Matt Slauson doing now?

Slauson retired from the NFL after the 2019 season and is now an offensive line coach at the University of Nebraska.

Summary: Matt Slauson was a valuable member of the New York Jets for six seasons. He was a key part of the offensive line and helped the team achieve success on the field. His contributions to the Jets will not be forgotten.

Transition to the next article section: Matt Slauson's time with the Jets is just one chapter in his football career. He has also played for the Chicago Bears and is now an offensive line coach at the University of Nebraska. His story is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of playing in the NFL.

Conclusion

Matt Slauson's time with the New York Jets was a successful one. He was a key member of the offensive line and helped the team reach the AFC Championship Game in 2015. Slauson was a tough and physical player who was known for his ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes.

Slauson's contributions to the Jets should not be forgotten. He was a valuable member of the team for six seasons and helped the Jets achieve success on the field. His story is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of playing in the NFL.