2023 Jets Country Player Profile: LB Claudin Cherelus (41)
Claudin Cherelus may be an HBCU hidden gem.
The undrafted rookie linebacker is out to prove that he has what it takes to compete in the NFL.
"It was basically me betting on myself and trusting that I belonged," said Cherelus in an interview with the Naples Daily News after signing an UDFA deal with the Jets. "I knew in my mind I’m an NFL-caliber player."
Cherelus passed on opportunities to play in the CFL this summer in order to pursue his NFL dreams.
The 24-year-old linebacker has yet to be deterred by any obstacles. After a two-year stay at UMass, he transferred to Alcorn State and eventually played his way onto pro scouts' radar.
The 6-foot-2 Cherelus appears to be embracing the "small-school" label that is given to non-DI FBS prospects.
"I think HCBUs in general don’t get as much attention as they should. We get overlooked and I just want to be part of the reason that we start getting more looks," said to NDN writer Dan DeLuca.
Cherelus participated in the HBCU Legacy Bowl, an all-star showcase for seniors from America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He made two tackles on gameday and took advantage of the opportunity to be seen by NFL decision-makers.
Despite playing only nine games, Cherelus recorded a team-high 14.5 tackles-for-loss for the Braves' defense. He made 73 stops, including 6.0 sacks, while accounting for an interception and two forced fumbles.
Now, he'll try to show the Jets what he can do.
"We [my agent and I] both already felt the Jets would be the best place for me to be," said Cherelus to the Naples Daily News. "They showed interest in me the whole way and I wanted to be there just as much."
Claudin Cherelus, Linebacker
Number: 41
Current Status: Reserve
How/When Acquired: UDFA / 2023
College: Alcorn State
2022 Final Stats: 9 GP, 73 TT, 14.5 TFL, 6.0 sacks, 4 QB hurries (at Alcorn State)
Player Headlines
Jets' 2023 Rookie Minicamp Roster
Cherelus is amongst the names of the 61 players present in Florham Park for the two-day minicamp.
Jets Unveil UDFA List
Alcorn State LB Claudin Cherelus is one of 13 UDFA signings announced by the Jets prior to the start of their rookie minicamp.
HBCU Legacy Bowl Top Performers
