Jets Re-Sign Versatile RB Kene Nwangwu

Nwangwu provides depth and special teams contributions for New York ahead of 2026 season.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 4:49pm

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The New York Jets have re-signed running back Kene Nwangwu to a one-year deal. Nwangwu, who has played for the Jets and Minnesota Vikings, provides depth at running back and is also a talented kickoff returner, having taken three kickoffs back for touchdowns in his career.

Why it matters

The Jets are looking to improve their roster and return to the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. Nwangwu's versatility as both a running back and return specialist gives the team valuable depth and special teams production as they aim to bounce back from a 3-14 season in 2025.

The details

Nwangwu's new contract with the Jets includes $1 million in guaranteed money and the potential to earn up to $3 million with incentives. In 2025, he had 13 carries for 49 yards and a kickoff return touchdown for the Jets. Over his three-year NFL career, Nwangwu has 2,640 kickoff return yards and five touchdowns.

  • Nwangwu re-signed with the Jets on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • In 2025, Nwangwu played for the Jets, returning 18 kicks.

The players

Kene Nwangwu

A versatile running back and kickoff return specialist who has played for the Jets and Vikings in his NFL career.

Geno Smith

A veteran quarterback who was recently traded to the Jets and will compete for the starting job alongside Justin Fields.

Aaron Glenn

The Jets' first-year head coach in 2025 who will be expected to lead the team to a turnaround in 2026.

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What’s next

The Jets will look to Nwangwu to provide a spark on special teams and contribute in the backfield as they aim to improve on their 3-14 record from 2025 and end their playoff drought.

The takeaway

The Jets' signing of Kene Nwangwu highlights their efforts to bolster their roster with versatile, productive players as they try to turn things around in 2026. Nwangwu's ability to contribute on offense and special teams makes him a valuable addition for a team in need of a boost.