WATCH: Jets cut rookie Jachai Polite in shocking roster move

The linebacker didn't make the opening day roster despite being a third-round pick

Jets GM Joe Douglas is certainly proving he isn't afraid to make tough decisions. In a stunning announcement prior to Saturday's roster deadline, rookie linebacker Jachai Polite is being cut, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post. 

Former Jets GM Mike Maccagnan selected the Florida product with the 68th pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Despite concerns about his maturity and a poor overall showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, the Jets believed Polite was a steal as a third-rounder and a key piece for the future. 

Instead in a wild turn of events, Polite is on the market as the regular season kicks off next week. 

Polite struggled in training camp and in the preseason, as he mostly took snaps with the third team. Polite concluded the preseason with 107 snaps, four tackles, three hurries, no QB hits and no sacks.

Polite joins Elijah McGuire (2017 sixth-round pick) as Maccagnan draft picks that Douglas has parted ways with. 

This is the first time the Jets have cut a rookie drafted within the first three rounds since 1986 (second-round pick Doug Williams), per ESPN's Rich Cimini. 

The Jets are cutting third-round LB Jachai Polite, source confirms. I believe this is the first time since 1986 (!) they’ve cut a rookie picked in the first three rounds before the regular season. FYI: Doug Williams, OT, second round, 1986. #Jets

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) August 31, 2019

This decision sets the tone for the Joe Douglas era loud and clear that a lofty status is irrelevant and production is all that matters.