Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is trying to get back into the NFL with the Jets

Even if many doubted it, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif did not mention the word retirement when he announced his intention to prioritize medicine last June. You had to take the guard at his word, because he’s about to return to the NFL, with the New York Jets.

• Also read: [BALADO] Laurent Duvernay-Tardif still has hopes of playing in the NFL

• Also read: Duvernay-Tardif with Alouettes: an unlikely scenario

Duvernay left Tardiff Montreal on Tuesday for the Jets’ corporate headquarters in New Jersey, where he is completing a physical. If all goes as planned, his appointment will be quickly formalized.

He will first join the Jets reserve team. Depending on his progress, he could then be built into the regular roster. In all likelihood, we shouldn’t expect to see him in uniform for Sunday’s game against the Patriots in Foxboro.

The DuVernay-Tardiff clan does not plan to comment on the entire matter until the news is official.

Always in the plans

In the spring, the veteran, who played seven seasons in the NFL, explained that he wasn’t putting an end to his career, but had to prioritize his medical career for a while.

In a Montreal hospital, he thus completed a phase of his residency during the summer season and since the start of the season, was ready to return to play if his services were required.

“I’m continuing to train and in September I’ll see how I feel, but the teams who have called me are comfortable with the situation. I couldn’t be more transparent about that. He told registeron 8 June.

Logical meeting

Since then, some teams have shown interest in Duvernay-Tardif. Returning to New York became a logical choice.

Last season, after six seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Quebec guard was transferred to the Jets midway through. Initially a reservist, he quickly established himself as a regular starter.

The Jets went from last year’s rebuilding team to a playoff-seeking team this season, going 6-3. Numerous injuries on the offensive line, including one that ended young guard Elijah Vera Tucker’s season, have the potential to open the door for Quebecers.

The coaching staff, management and playing system are familiar elements for Duvernay-Tardif.

At the NFL’s Combine Camp last March, general manager Joe Douglas made it no secret that he wanted to see “Doc” back with the team, during an interview with register.

We know what kind of person he is, not to mention the fact that he has a hero resume. He’s still a top player in this league and we obviously have every interest in having him back with us,” he said.

In 2021, Duvernay-Tardif has been in the uniform for eight games with the Jets, including seven as right guard. He previously won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in February 2020.