Weekly Roundup: Jets’ Corley Aims for Redemption After Fumble
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – In a game that showcased both triumph and tribulation, New York Jets rookie Malachi Corley found himself at the center of a viral moment that taught him a lesson in resilience. During Thursday Night Football, Corley was poised to score his inaugural NFL touchdown but inadvertently dropped the ball just shy of crossing the goal line. “It’s not a defining moment for me,” he reflected, as he processed the unexpected slip.
Jets rookie Malachi Corley celebrates what could have been a touchdown.
The Jets’ victory against the Houston Texans (21-13) played a crucial role in alleviating the pressure on Corley, as he expressed gratitude for the win. “It could’ve got really bad for me if we had lost,” he admitted, clearly relieved that his mistake didn’t overshadow a team achievement that kept their playoff hopes alive.
Despite the blunder, Corley’s perspective on the event was remarkably positive. “It was a great experience,” he stated, emphasizing the joy of his untouched 18-yard run, although he needed just one more yard for a score. The rookie noted, “I was still extremely excited… So it was fun overall.”
His teammates rallied around him, sharing stories of similar experiences to uplift his spirits. Davante Adams reached out with encouragement, while Mike Williams, recently traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, reminded Corley of a similar mishap by former NFL star DeSean Jackson in 2008. “You wait your entire life to have an opportunity to score a touchdown in the NFL… it was a great experience overall,” Corley recounted, revealing that even in disappointment, he relished the moment.
Looking ahead, Corley is set for a potentially increased role against the Arizona Cardinals this coming Sunday, following the trade that adjusted the team’s receiving lineup. Understanding the importance of the moment should he find the end zone again, Corley plans to embrace the moment fully: “I’m probably going to hold on to the ball all the way to the sideline and give it to Coach [Jeff] Ulbrich.” This time, he intends to secure the catch and savor the achievement.
Conclusion
Malachi Corley’s experience serves as a reminder that in sports, mistakes can become defining moments of growth and learning. As he prepares for his next game, Jets fans are eager to witness how he channels this lesson into future performances and strive toward his first official NFL touchdown.
New York Jets celebrate a victory over the Texans.
