Big Shoes, Bigger Hopes: Jets’ Armand Membou Draws Comparisons to NFL Legend Jason Peters

The New York Jets, a franchise perpetually searching for stability on its offensive line, made a significant splash in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Missouri offensive lineman Armand Membou with the No. 7 overall pick. While the excitement surrounding a top-10 pick is always palpable, what has truly set the NFL world abuzz are the early and incredibly high comparisons being drawn for the young tackle. ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, among others, has likened Membou’s traits and play style to a young Jason Peters, a nine-time Pro Bowler and likely future Hall of Famer.

This comparison immediately elevates expectations for Membou, placing him in a lineage of elite offensive linemen. But what makes this comparison so intriguing, and what does it mean for the Jets’ revamped offensive line?

Armand Membou: A Physical Marvel with Elite Potential

Before diving into the Peters comparison, let’s understand what makes Armand Membou such a highly touted prospect. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 332 pounds, Membou possesses a rare combination of size, power, and surprising athleticism. His performance at the NFL Combine turned heads, with a 4.91-second 40-yard dash – the fastest by any offensive lineman at least 6-foot-4 and 330 pounds since 2003. He also boasted an impressive 9-foot-7 broad jump and a 34-inch vertical jump, showcasing his explosive power.

Throughout his collegiate career at Missouri, Membou proved to be a dominant force at right tackle. In his final season (2024), he did not allow a single sack or quarterback hit in 411 pass-blocking snaps, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors. He’s known for his:

• Explosiveness and Movement: Membou’s ability to get out of his stance quickly and move effectively in space makes him a valuable asset in both pass protection and run blocking, particularly in zone schemes.
• Power and Anchor: He possesses a dense, powerful build and can generate significant displacement at the point of attack, moving defenders off the line of scrimmage. His stout anchor helps him hold up against powerful bull rushes.
• Composed Quickness: Despite his size, Membou plays with a remarkable level of composure and quickness, allowing him to mirror pass rushers effectively.
• Rugged Demeanor: He brings a “mean, tough, nasty” attitude to the trenches, a trait highly valued in offensive linemen.

While he’s primarily played right tackle, scouts acknowledge his versatility and the potential for him to succeed at guard as well, given his tools.

The Jason Peters Parallel: A Look at the Legend

To truly appreciate the significance of the comparison, one must understand the career of Jason Peters. “The Bodyguard,” as he was affectionately known, played an astounding 20 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the Philadelphia Eagles. He is widely considered one of the greatest offensive tackles of his generation, earning:

• 9 Pro Bowl selections
• 2 First-Team All-Pro selections
• Super Bowl LII Champion

Peters’ journey to NFL stardom was unique. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent tight end out of Arkansas and converted to offensive tackle, quickly becoming a dominant force. His game was defined by:

• Exceptional Athleticism for his Size: Peters was a remarkably agile and fluid mover despite his massive frame, allowing him to handle speed rushers and get to the second level in the run game.
• Raw Power and Aggression: He possessed an innate ability to overwhelm defenders with pure strength and a relentless, aggressive blocking style.
• Elite Longevity: His ability to play at a high level for two decades is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and adaptability.

While Peters’ path to the NFL was different (undrafted tight end to star tackle), the essence of the comparison with Membou lies in shared physical traits and a projected impact on the field.

Why the Comparison Holds Weight

Jeremy Fowler’s comparison isn’t simply a throwaway comment. It stems from observing specific characteristics and projecting future development:

1. Rare Athleticism for Size: Both Membou and a young Peters showcase exceptional athletic ability for their immense stature. This allows them to execute blocks that many linemen their size simply cannot. This athleticism is crucial for handling the increasingly fast and powerful edge rushers in today’s NFL.
2. Run-Blocking Prowess: Peters was a mauler in the run game, opening up massive lanes for his running backs. Membou, with his explosive drive blocking and ability to get to the second level, exhibits similar potential to be a game-changer in the run game.
3. Pass-Blocking Foundation: While Peters refined his technique over time, his raw physical tools and athleticism provided a strong foundation for his pass protection. Membou’s college tape, particularly his clean sheet of zero sacks allowed in 2024, suggests a similar innate ability to protect the quarterback. Scouts note his composed quickness and excellent body control in pass sets.
4. Demeanor and Physicality: Both players embody a rugged, physical approach to the game. They play with a clear intent to dominate their opponents, a trait that sets elite offensive linemen apart.

It’s important to temper expectations – comparing a rookie to a likely Hall of Famer is a lofty benchmark. However, the comparison highlights the Jets’ optimism and the truly rare skill set Membou brings to the table.

Impact on the New York Jets Offensive Line

The Jets’ investment in Armand Membou at No. 7 overall signifies their commitment to building a formidable offensive line. This has been a long-standing area of concern for the team, and in recent years, they’ve aggressively used premium draft capital to address it. With Membou joining last year’s first-round pick, left tackle Olu Fashanu, the Jets now boast two young, high-ceiling bookend tackles.

Alongside returning starters like left guard John Simpson, center Joe Tippmann, and right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (assuming health), the Jets are assembling a young, talented, and potentially dominant offensive line. The average age of these projected starters is well under 29, suggesting a group that could grow together and provide stability for years to come.

For the Jets, a powerful and cohesive offensive line is paramount, especially with the strategic shift towards a potentially more run-heavy approach under new offensive leadership. A strong O-line will not only protect the quarterback but also open up lanes for star running back Breece Hall and create opportunities in the play-action game.

The Road Ahead: Development and Adaptation

While the Peters comparison is exciting, Membou’s NFL journey is just beginning. He will face an immediate challenge in competing for the starting right tackle spot against veterans like Chukwuma Okorafor and other returnees. The transition from college to the NFL is steep, especially for offensive linemen who must adapt to faster, stronger, and more technically refined defensive fronts.

Areas Membou will focus on include:

• Refining Hand Placement and Timing: Against NFL pass rushers, precise hand usage is critical to maintaining leverage and disrupting rush plans.
• Consistent Anchor Against Power: While he shows a good anchor, NFL bull rushers are a different breed, and he’ll need to continue to develop his lower body strength and technique.
• Versatility in Pass Sets: Adapting to various pass-rushing moves and developing a wider array of pass-setting techniques will be crucial.

However, with his elite athletic tools, strong foundation, and the “mean” demeanor highlighted by the Jets’ coaching staff, Armand Membou has all the ingredients to live up to the high expectations. The comparison to Jason Peters serves not as a guarantee, but as a thrilling glimpse into the potential of what the New York Jets hope will be their next long-term stalwart on the offensive line. If he can even come close to the longevity and dominance of Peters, the Jets’ investment will pay dividends for years to come.