Accountability comes in all shapes and sizes in the NFL — even for captains. Linebacker Jamien Sherwood learned that the hard way in the New York Jets’ Week 8 victory.
In the first quarter of the team’s 39-38 comeback win over the Cincinnati Bengals, the Jets benched Sherwood from his normal starting linebacker spot. Instead, fifth-round rookie Kiko Mauigoa got the start alongside All-Pro Quincy Williams.
Sherwood was reinserted into his every-down role later in the game, finishing with five tackles and a pass deflection on 41 defensive snaps.
But what caused his benching in the first place? Why would the Jets hold a defensive captain and recently extended player off the field?
Jets bench captain in win
Speaking to reporters amid the euphoria of his first win as head coach, Aaron Glenn was deflective about the reasoning behind Sherwood’s brief benching.
“I’m keeping that between me and him and the team,” Glenn said.
After signing a three-year, $45 million extension with the team in March, Sherwood was expected to be a key piece of the defense for years to come. He was named a captain by the coaching staff in August.
Sherwood had a slow start to the season while adjusting to the heightened expectations of a new contract and leadership role. But after bounce-back performances against the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos, it seemed like the 25-year-old and the Jets’ defense were getting back on track.
Then came the benching.
While the circumstances behind his benching remain somewhat of a mystery, the Jets will head into their bye week with plenty of time to determine what they need from Sherwood moving forward.