John Jenkins' NFL Journey: A Tale of Resilience and Surprise
A decade-long career without long-term security
John Jenkins, a seasoned NFL defensive tackle, has been through an extraordinary journey that raises questions about the league's approach to veteran players. After being drafted in 2013, he embarked on a series of one-year contracts, a pattern that would persist for an astonishing 11 years!
But here's where his story takes an unexpected turn: In January 2026, at 36 years young, Jenkins finally secured his first-ever contract extension with the Ravens, a reward for his unwavering dedication. This extension, a $2 million deal for the 2026 season, came as a surprise even to Jenkins himself.
His career began with the Saints, who drafted him in the third round in 2013. However, his rookie contract was cut short when he was released in 2016. From there, Jenkins embarked on a nomadic journey, signing one-year deals with the Seahawks, Bears (twice), Giants (twice), Dolphins (three times), Raiders (twice), and finally, the Ravens.
And this is the part most people miss—despite his age, Jenkins is not an outlier in the league. He's among several defensive linemen in their late thirties still dominating the field, including Arizona's Calais Campbell (39), Philadelphia's Brandon Graham (37), and Pittsburgh's Cam Heyward, who will turn 37 soon. This begs the question: Why do teams hesitate to offer long-term deals to these proven veterans?
Jenkins' story is a testament to his resilience and the unpredictable nature of the NFL. It leaves us wondering: Is the league's approach to veteran contracts fair? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you think age should be a determining factor in contract negotiations, or should performance and experience take precedence?
