La Grande’s Andrew Peasley throws first NFL touchdown, helps lead Jets to preseason win
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, August 12th, 2024 in Northeastern Oregon News
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Andrew Peasley, a former standout quarterback at La Grande High School, made an impressive debut in his first NFL game as a member of the New York Jets on Saturday.
The former Tiger and Wyoming Cowboy saw his first action as an NFL quarterback for the New York Jets during Saturday’s preseason game against the Washington Commanders. The Jets won 20-17 thanks for a game-winning field goal with 21 seconds left.
The NFL preseason rarely sees starters playing, so it gives opportunities for guys trying to make the roster, such as Peasley, who signed with New York as an undrafted free agent in April.
Peasley entered the game after backup QB Tyrod Taylor started the game’s first two possessions (Four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, the team’s starting quarterback, did not play).
Down 7-0 in the second quarter, Peasley helped lead the Jets down the field, then connected with Jason Brownlee for a 12-yard touchdown, Peasley’s first touchdown throw as a professional football player.
Before being replaced later in the game, Peasley went 8 for 11, with 73 passing yards and the touchdown throw.
Jets head coach Robert Saleh praised Peasley afterward, “I thought that young quarterback did a great job today.”
With a solid performance under his belt, Peasley is expected to get more playing time in the Jets’ next preseason matchup against the Carolina Panthers on August 17th.
