Gang Green Nation
Over the last few months, we’ve been breaking down all undrafted free agents signed by the Jets. We conclude today with former UCLA offensive lineman Courtland Ford.
The 25-year Old Ford is listed at 6’6” and 315 pounds and played in 46 games in his career, starting 25 at three different positions. In addition to UCLA, he also played for USC and Kentucky.
Background
Ford was a three-star high school recruit, who initially headed to USC in 2020.
He would redshirt his first season, although he did start one game at left guard in his only appearance, with USC winning that matchup.
As a redshirt freshman, he started the first eight games at left tackle but then only made one more appearance off the bench as he was sidelined by injuries and illness.
In 2022, he played in 10 of 14 games, starting three, and opted to enter the transfer portal at the end of the year.
Having moved to Kentucky, he was again affected by injuries as he was limited to two starts in two seasons. He only appeared in two games in 2024.
He transferred again, this time to UCLA, and got a chance to start 11 games last season, albeit with mixed results.
Having not been invited to the scouting combine, Ford was hurt at his pro day and wasn’t able to complete a full workout, hurting his already slim chances of being drafted.
Ford was not one of the first round of undrafted free agents signed by the Jets but they signed him after he attended their rookie minicamp on a tryout basis.
Let’s move onto some more in-depth analysis of what Ford brings to the table, based on in-depth research and film study.
Measurables/Athleticism
Ford has nice size and above average length but may need to bulk up and add some strength. He previously was reported to have worked hard on his body and physique at USC.
His pro day workout was affected by an injury so you can perhaps throw out his disappointing numbers (12 bench press reps and 5.46 in the short shuttle).
Usage
Ford’s only action in his true freshman season was an emergency start at left guard, although that was the only time in his career he played inside.
He otherwise played primarily at left tackle, other than at Kentucky where he started two games on the right in 2023.
He played a few snaps as tight end in jumbo or unbalanced packages.
Pass Blocking
When Ford arrived at UCLA in 2025, he hadn’t given up a sack since 2021, but he gave up eight in his lone season with the Bruins. He had also given up three in his eight starts as a redshirt freshman.
His pressure rate wasn’t too bad as a college player but it was higher in 2025 than the rest of his career, perhaps because he was left on an island more due to his experience.
He moves his feet pretty well to stay in front...
