And now we wait.
Former Hawkeye receiver Brandon Smith has made the most of another opportunity to make an NFL roster, and his strong play has opened a lot of eyes in the New York Jets organization.
Smith did not have the easiest path to the NFL following an average career at the University of Iowa. He is athletic and adept at high-pointing the ball during catches, but has never had the chance to showcase his abilities.
During his career at Iowa, Smith accumulated a modest 1,031 receiving yards (11.7 average) and nine touchdowns on 88 receptions in three seasons.
Smith went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft and bounced around between different NFL practice squads and two stints with the UFL's DC Defenders.
Smith finally got another chance with the Jets this offseason, and has made the most of it.
In three preseason games for the Jets, Smith has accumulated 113 receiving yards on 10 receptions, including a solid performance in the final preseason game against the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Smith capped a solid preseason with 42 receiving yards (14.0 average), a long of 21 yards, on three receptions.
Smith shared the offensive spotlight with undrafted rookie receiver Jamaal Pritchett, who was dynamic in the passing game and on special teams, but still had a solid performance.
As an unheralded signing, Smith has worked his way into contention for a spot on the Jets' 53-man roster ahead of cut day next week. If he does not make the squad, he will surely get a look elsewhere.