Columbus Aviators defensive tackle Patrick Jenkins has signed a contract with the New York Jets of the National Football League, the Aviators announced today.

Jenkins (6-2, 287lbs) becomes the eighth Aviator to sign an NFL contract since the conclusion of the UFL’s 2026 season, joining Tony Fields II (Chicago Bears), Chris Glaser (Dallas Cowboys), Tay Martin (Detroit Lions), D.J. Miller (Buffalo Bills), Roc Taylor (Carolina Panthers), Antwane Wells (Atlanta Falcons), and Jacoby Windmon (Pittsburgh Steelers).

Jenkins played in all 10 games for Columbus in 2026, recording 22 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He originally signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2025 and later spent time on the Atlanta Falcons practice squad.

Jenkins was selected by the DC Defenders in the 2026 UFL Draft before being traded to Columbus for tight end Briley Moore ahead of training camp in early February.

A native of New Orleans, Jenkins played at TCU and in his hometown with Tulane. In his three seasons with the Green Wave, he tallied 107 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks. Overall, Jenkins recorded 132 tackles and 14 sacks in his college career.

The Columbus Aviators retain Jenkins’ rights should he return to the UFL in the future.