Obinna Eze’s Journey Takes Another Turn as He Eyes Next NFL Opportunity
Former TCU Tackle Released After Two Seasons on Jets’ Practice Squad
The New York Jets have officially released offensive tackle Obinna Eze, ending the Nigerian-born lineman’s two-year stint with the organization. While Eze never played a regular-season snap for the Jets, he remained a consistent presence on their practice squad and now hits the free-agent market in hopes of extending his NFL career elsewhere.
The 6-foot-8, 325-pound tackle joined the Jets in 2023 after a brief spell with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Originally signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft, Eze has now spent time with multiple NFL teams, though meaningful game time continues to elude him.
From Lagos to the League: A Unique NFL Path
Eze’s football story is one of resilience and international promise. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to the U.S. in his teens and developed into a collegiate-level offensive lineman. He began his college career at Memphis before transferring to TCU for his final season — a move aimed at bolstering his draft stock.
Although he went undrafted, the Lions gave him his first NFL opportunity. Since then, he has bounced between teams, including a brief four-day stint with the Michigan Panthers of the USFL before the Jets called.
Thanks to his international roots, Eze remains eligible for an International Player Pathway (IPP) spot, which could make him an attractive addition for NFL teams looking to invest in long-term developmental talent.
Still Waiting for a Debut, but Not Out of Options
Despite being in the league for three seasons, Eze has yet to see the field during a regular-season NFL game. However, given his size, athleticism, and eligibility for the IPP program, his journey in professional football may be far from over.
With training camps underway and rosters still in flux, another opportunity may arise sooner than later.
Eze now becomes a free agent — and one to watch, especially for teams in need of raw, developmental depth at tackle.