Forgotten NCAA Division II star seamlessly replaces Jets' Pro Bowl selection

The New York Jets have kept Irv Charles around for a few years, and it's paying dividends.

The undrafted, well-traveled wide receiver was an absolute menace on punt coverage in the Jets' 24-17 win over the Tennessee Titans on September 15. Charles made two well-timed tackles to immediately snuff out attempted returns, and he subsequently blocked a punt that led to a field goal for the Jets.

It's been a long road for Charles to land the starting job as New York's primary gunner. The South Jersey native started his collegiate career at Penn State before moving onto Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania. After going undrafted in 2022, Charles signed with the Jets and spent his rookie season on Practice Squad.

In the offseason, New York moved on from veteran gunner Justin Hardee, who has previously represented the organization at the Pro Bowl. The decision to let Hardee walk opened up an opportunity for Charles, who made 12 appearances in 2023 and filled in admirably when Hardee missed six games due to injury.

"It's his third year now, right? And he's just, he's ascending. He's learning who he is. He's learning his game. He's learning. He's super confident in his ability," said head coach Robert Saleh.

Charles made his NFL debut in a 31-21 win over the Denver Broncos on October 8, 2023 and set up a first-quarter scoring drive by forcing a muffed punt that was recovered by the Jets. He totaled 236 special teams snaps, showing his potential to be a difference maker.

After flashing his ability last year, the 27-year-old Charles has earned an important role on the 2024 Jets and is producing a high level. He earned one of our three game balls for his performance in New York's Week 2 victory.

"He's confident in the game plan that he's been given from a special teams standpoint. And he's our bell cow. I said it yesterday, he's a Pro Bowl special teamer and he makes everything go for us in that phase of game," said Saleh.

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