The New York Jets looked like they were going to be one of the few NFL teams to go 0-16, but after winning a couple of flukey games, they played themselves into the number 2 pick in the NFL Draft. With their copious amount of cap space, energizing new head coach Robert Saleh, and healthy amount of draft picks, the New York Jets are one of the teams that could turn it around the quickest. This mock draft will adress what they need to do at quarterback and how they will address other major holes on their team. With the Jaguars taking Trevor Lawrence at number one, the Jets are officially on the clock.
Round 1 Pick 2: Zach Wilson QB BYU
I believe that the Jets have to move on from Sam Darnold. Sam has a chance to be a good quarterback somewhere else, but the Jets need to reset at QB and align their next quarterback with the general manager and new head coach. Zach Wilson perfectly fits the offense that Mike LaFleur, the Jets offensive coordinator, runs. The west coast RPO style that Kyle Shanahan perfected is exactly what Wilson thrives in. His personality fitst New York well and he looks to be the guy that can lead the Jets to greatness.
TRADE: Jets send Darnold and 2021 5th to Washington Football Team for 19th Overall. Round 1 Pick 19: Gregory Rousseau
After taking Zach Wilson with the second overall pick, the Jets need to move Sam Darnold. Washington Football Team, a team reported to be in on Sam Darnold via Adam Schefter, are going to be aggressive in the QB trade market. Sam Darnold makes a lot of sense for them as he is on a cheap deal and if re-developed correctly, can make a huge impact for the team. Gregory Rousseau would be a great addition for the Jets, as they are in desperate need for a toolsy EDGE rusher. Rousseau may not be the most developed prospect, but he has the ability to develop into one of the best in the NFL.
Round 1 Pick 23: Zaven Collins LB Tulsa
Not a very popular pick among Jets fans, but Zaven Collins is a difference maker on defense, and fills the ILB role that Robert Saleh relies on. Zaven does a great job at everything, from blitzing to pass coverage he has it all. He can lay the boom but he is also light on his feet with some speed. If any team wants the full package at line backer, Zaven is your guy.
Round 2 Pick 2: Landon Dickerson OL Alabama
Landon Dickerson is one of my favorite guys in this draft, and I think he will be one of Joe Douglas’s guys as well. Landon is a great leader and locker room guy, always wanting to play and always energizing his guys to work for a win. Hes also a great interior offensive lineman, something the Jets desperately need. The Jets need leaders on this team, and Landon Dickerson would be just that.
Round 3 Pick 2: Tommy Tremble TE Notre Dame
The Jets need a tight end who can not only win over the middle, but also be a great blocking piece. Tommy has elite size and speed for tight end, and is also a fantastic blocker. This sets up delayed routes that can scheme Tremble wide open, as well as crucial run blocks on third down. Tommy Tremble did not have the best production at Notre Dame, but his skills and athletic attributes can easily make him a three down tight end in the NFL.
Round 3 Pick 21: Israel Mukuamu CB South Carolina
The New York Jets desperately need a rangey outside corner back, and Israel Mukuamu is exactly that. 6’4 cornerback out of South Carolina needs some development but with his speed, range, and pure athleticism, he can be the next great corner for the Jets. Other needs could have been addressed here such as receiver or running back, but after Israel the corner class drops off significantly, so this is the best value pick for the NYJ.
Round 4 Pick 2: Kenneth Gainwell RB Memphis
Kenneth Gainwell out of Memphis is the prefect running back for the Mike LaFleur offense. His bldnf of speed and catching ability serves the offense well, as they can swing him outside on a bubble for 15+ yards. Gainwell is also a terrific runner, and can easily gouge a team for 20+ with his incredible speed. If the Jets truly want to upgrade their running back spot, this is the guy to do it.
Round 5 Pick 2: Dez Fitzpatrick WR Louisville
The Jets finally get a wide receiver here in the 5th round, and Dez Fitzpatrick is one of my favorites in the class. Dez has great hands and is overall smooth as a player, great receiver for younger quarterbacks who need a reliable catcher of the ball. Dez was an outstanding receiver in the Senior Bowl, netting himself Offensive MPV. Dez Fitzpatrick could easily be a top guy when its all said and done in the league.
Round 6 Pick 2: Tamorrion Terry WR Florida State
Once you hit the later rounds, the goal is to draft guys with high potential so if they hit, they hit big. Tamorrion Terry is that guy. Standing at an outstanding 6,4, this guy can be the true number one receiver if developed properly. He has great big play ability, and his only issues are consistency and staying in plays. This kind of player is a great get in the later rounds, and if he hits, JD will be the GM of the Jets for a long time.