Damien Woody's Career with the New York Jets
Damien Woody joined the New York Jets as a free agent ahead of the 2006 NFL season after spending his first seven seasons with the New England Patriots. He played inside linebacker for the Jets from 2006 to 2008, appearing in 45 regular season games over that three year span. During his time with the team, he recorded 212 combined tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions, anchoring the middle of the defense alongside players like Eric Barton and Kerry Rhodes Pro Football Reference.
Woody's tenure with the Jets ended after the 2008 season when he was released as part of a roster restructuring under head coach Rex Ryan's incoming staff. He signed with the Detroit Lions shortly after, but his three years in New York remain a central part of his legacy as a reliable defensive starter in a period when the franchise was transitioning between eras ESPN NFL.
Damien Woody's NFL Contract and Earnings
Damien Woody signed a five year, $25 million contract with the New York Jets in 2006, with approximately $9 million guaranteed at signing. The deal included a $5 million signing bonus and base salaries ranging from $3.5 million to $5.5 million across the term, making him one of the higher paid inside linebackers on the roster at the time OverTheCap.
His average annual salary of $5 million placed him in the top tier of Jets linebackers for that contract cycle, though his production in terms of tackles and pass rush did not consistently match the financial commitment. By the final year of the deal, his base salary dropped to $3.5 million as the team moved toward younger options, and he was released before the contract fully expired Spotrac.
Damien Woody's Current Role and Post-Playing Career
Post-NFL Career and Media Work
After retiring from professional football following the 2011 season with the New England Patriots, Damien Woody transitioned into sports media and broadcasting. He has appeared as a football analyst and commentator, drawing on his experience as a two time Super Bowl champion to break down NFL games and player performance for various outlets.
Current Status and Public Profile
Damien Woody maintains a public profile through media appearances and his association with former Jets and Patriots teammates. He is not currently on any NFL roster or coaching staff, but he remains a recognizable figure in discussions about the Jets' history during the late 2000s and the broader landscape of NFL linebackers from that era.