America’s Grade: Dallas Cowboys Draft Grade

May 23, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / 4 Comments

Round 1: Zach Martin

Protecting Tony Romo

With the first pick, much to the dismay of Cowboys fans, Dallas selected offensive lineman Zach Martin. Despite the pleas to draft Johnny Football, the Cowboys made the right pick. Trust me, it would have been entertaining to see Jerry World have Manziel in the center ring, but with the enormous contract of Tony Romo that would never happen. In order to protect their muli-million dollar man at quarterback, the Cowboys made the smart selection of Martin. He started every game in college and can play every position on the line. He will be a day one starter at tackle or guard and was the safest pick for Dallas at this point. Could become staple on their offensive line for next decade.

Grade: A

Round 2: Demarcus Lawrence

Demarcus Ware’s Replacement?

Without question the Cowboys defense was abysmal last season. Not only did the team struggle on the field, but with arguably their best playmaker in Demarcus Ware heading to Denver, this defense has problems everywhere. To address the rebuilding, the Cowboys are relying on Lawrence to be the foundation. An outside pass rusher who can play standing up or with his hand in the dirt, his flexibility means that he can moved all round in the Cowboys defense. He maybe lacking in run defense, there is no question that Lawrence can get to the quarterback. He has some big shoes to fill in Ware’s absence, but could be a consistent double-digit sack artist if utilized correctly. Dallas needs to get after the quarterback and believe that Lawrence will be happy to oblige.

Grade: A

Round 4: Anthony Hitchens

A big reach

With 5 picks in the seventh round, it’s puzzling why the Cowboys would pick a player who projected to be there. Hitchens was a productive player in college but at 6’0 and 240 pounds Hitchens will at best be a backup in the Cowboys new 4-3 defense. He fits the mold for an outside backer, but with Bruce Carter already at the weak linebacker position, Hitchens will probably be just a backup and only see a few snaps this season. With other needs and talent still available, the Cowboys stretched for a backup next season.

Grade: D+

Round 5: Devin Street

Another weapon for Romo

The Cowboys made a nice pick with Street here in the fifth round. Despite lacking elite speed, Street’s 6’3 size and great hands make him a nice red zone target for Tony Romo. With Dez Bryant the clear number one receiver on the depth chart, Street could work his way up into the number two or three spot by the end of the season. Terrance Williams will be opposite Bryant opening day, but don’t be surprised if Street becomes a solid third receiver for Cowboys. A good pick, but the Cowboys offense is not the problem. Would have been better off improving their terrible defense but at least they get a nice offensive piece.

Grade: B

Round 7: Ben Gardner

Building up D-Line

A puzzling pick. Despite their needs on the defensive line the main problem for the Cowboys is rushing the passer. Gardner is an above average run stuffer who struggles rushing the passer. If anything the only reason this pick makes sense is if the Cowboys still are unsure about what base defense to use. While they are transitioning to a 4-3, Gardner would be a solid 3-4 end and could be a backup plan if the 4-3 does not pan out. Either way, if the Cowboys do decide to stick with the 4-3 the 264 pound Gardner can’t play inside. Will have to play well on special teams or could be cut be end of training camp. Could be the case of square peg trying to fit into round hole.

Grade: D+

Round 7: Will Smith

Not that Will Smith

No, not Will Smith the actor, although you never know with Jerry Jones in his constant quest to be in the spotlight. Smith is a better prospect here in the seventh round then Hitchens was in round four. Good size and speed has the tools to develop into a versatile outside linebacker. Fits 4-3 mold and despite average run stopping skills and raw pass rushing ability, Smith is great in coverage. If he develops could be a nice role player on defense and special teams. Has more upside then Hitchens and could be a dark horse to be a late season starter and compete for a starting job next season.

Grade: B

Round 7: Ahmad Dixon

Cowboys finally address woeful secondary

Is it just me or is Jerry Jones sticking to Texas prospects? Maybe trying to make up for not drafting Johnny Manziel by drafting players his fellow Texans will know. The safety position was a disaster in Dallas last season. While the team could have addressed this in round one, Dallas waited to the seventh to add depth to the safety position. Dixon is a stout run stopping safety, whose limitations in pass coverage mean he is better suited for strong safety position. Wilcox and Heath maybe in front on the depth chart right now, but if Dixon can learn the playbook and work on his coverage, then he maybe a backup for 2014. Unlikely to start this year, but could be a nice project in two to three years if given time to develop.

Grade: B –

Round 7: Ken Bishop

Run stopper

Cowboys could see Bishop developing into a future run stopper in their 4-3 scheme. Small school prospect who will be better off in rotational role, will have to prove his worth to make 53 man roster. Could be destined to make practice squad in order to develop or could be a training camp casualty. Despite drafting two linebacker already, Yawin Smallwood was available and could have been a steal here. Missed opportunity for the boys.

Grade: C

Round 7: Terrance Mitchell

Steal in seventh round

How Mitchell was available in the seventh round I will never know. Good size makes up for lack of explosive speed and burst. Very raw player with a decent ceiling. Could make a strong case to be third cornerback on the depth chart next season or at very least fourth corner. Provides very good depth and young prospect. Left school too early, but if developed correctly could become a very good corner.

Grade: A –

Overall Grade: B –

Some hits and missed, but overall a solid draft considering lack of picks

With only four picks in the first sixth rounds, the Cowboys were under a lot of pressure to get it right. While it would have benefitted them to probably move up by trading some of their five seventh round picks, the Cowboys were limited in the top end of this draft. Zack Martin may not have been the pick Cowboys fans wanted but he was the pick they needed. A safe pick that will shore up the offensive line and help Demarco Murray and Tomy Romo instantly. The loss of Demarcus Ware is a big one on an already depleted defense but Lawrence will be a nice addition and whose pass rushing ability will fit either the 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. After two great picks, the Cowboys whiffed in round four. The problem? Not only did they select better linebacking prospects in the seventh round, but also missed out on some good receivers and safeties available. Street is a nice edition in round five, but receiver wasn’t a primary need for this team. Despite eventually filling all of their needs, Dallas waited until the very end of the seventh round to it. There were some nice developmental picks in the seventh round, but it’s hard to imagine all five making the fifty-three man roster or even the practice. The good news is that the Cowboys did not completely screw up this draft and take Manziel in round one. The bad news is, their will be minimal impact by these prospects this year as these players will probably make their impact down the road after some development. They may have a lot of holes, especially on defense, but the silver lining is the Cowboys are still in the NFC East. No team significantly improved in the draft or free agency in this division and I still believe Dallas is the second best team in the division. I predict 8-8 in 2014, but at least this draft is keeping the Cowboys heading in the right direction instead of heading for a complete disaster.

Report Card: Jets 2014 NFL Draft Grades

May 12, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Calvin Pryor: Round 1
Jets went defense in round one? Is anyone really surprised

And with the 18th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft the New York Jets select…. Calvin Pryor, Safety, University of Louisville. While people may not like this pick because it did not fit the biggest needs on the team, the Jets still needed help in their depleted secondary. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix maybe the more polished prospect at this point, but Pryor’s upside and ability to be a thumper in the run game makes him a perfect fit for Rex’s defense. With the best wideouts and corners off the board, it’s better that the Jets took one of the better players available rather than reaching. Also, this pick helps the cornerback issue because Pryor’s range will help the corners with his coverage over the top. Plus, receivers may think twice coming over the middle knowing the Louisville slugger is patrolling center field. Hey, we’ve seen the Seattle blueprint for big hitting safeties and that’s worked out pretty well for them. Grade: A
Jace Amaro: Round 2
Big target for Geno or Michael

Looks like Geno Smith will finally have a security blanket in 2014. A potential first round prospect picked up in round two, Amaro is a versatile weapon who can lineup all over the field. What he lacks in run blocking, Amaro makes up for with great hands and the ability to get open in space. With tight ends becoming more utilized in passing games anyways, this pick gives the Jets another legitimate weapon on offense and a big target in the middle of the field. Whenever a player is compared to Gronkowski, that usually is a good indication that he makes plays on offense. This could be a steal for the Jets based on Amaro’s versatility. Grade A+
Dexter McDougle: Round 3
Guess third time is not the charm

With two great picks, the Jets stumbled with their third selection. McDougle is the biggest stretch for the Jets in this draft and the big question is why they picked him so early? With a good receiver in Donte Moncrief on the board and a possible starting guard in Gabe Jackson, McDougle looked like a player who would be available later where the Jets had a plethora of late round picks. There were also some other great corner prospects like Pierre Desir that they could have gotten down the line. While he did run a 4.4 40 at his pro day, the problem I have with this pick is the fit. True, he has the speed to play slot corner, but McDougle is better in a zone defensive scheme. His struggles in man coverage in college make it a head scratcher why the Jets wanted him in a defense where corners need to play great man coverage. While I hope to be proven wrong, this pick seems like a mistake. Grade: D+
Jalen Sanders: Round 4
Another head scratcher

Finally, the Jets took a receiver! Problem is it didn’t make a lot of sense. At 5’9 with very good speed, Sanders seems to be destined for special teams and a slot receiver. Problem? Jeremy Kerley has already established himself as a very good slot receiver. With Kerley ahead on the depth chart the only reason this pick makes some sense is because Kerley is an upcoming free agent and the Jets wanted a backup plan. While that’s all well and good, Sanders still figures to be at best a fourth receiver this season. He has upside, but this seemed like a stretch where the Jets could have addressed other needs. Grade: C –
Shaq Evans: Round 4
Loading up at receiver

This may be my favorite receiver pick in the draft. Evans is just a solid football player. While he doesn’t have a particular attribute that sets him apart, he is just a consistent receiver who makes catches. He reminds me of another very good Jets wide out, Jerricho Cotchery. He might not be a game changer, but has the upside to be a great number 2 possession receiver who moves the chains and makes critical catches. Evans could be a dark horse to be the Jets #2 receiver for opening day. Grade: A-
Dakota Dozier: Round 4
Small school, big potential

It’s almost appropriate that an offensive linemen has the name Dozier. While he was a very good left tackle at Furman Southern, Dozier has the potential to be a very good guard in the NFL. There’s no question, this guy is a road grater. While he still is a raw player, with the right coaching Dozier could be a starter on the line this season or be groomed into a full-time starter within three years. Worst case scenario for 2014, is that Dozier provides the interior line with depth. With tremendous upside and great run blocking ability, this looks like a match made in heaven for the Jets ground and pound philosophy. At least this means that Vlad Ducasse era is officially over. Jets fans rejoice! Grade:B+

Jeremiah George: Round 5
More depth in the middle

This pick adds some depth to the middle linebackers. If things go right George could be third on the depth chart by the end of camp. While he is undersized, George is a solid run defender. While at times he may get overwhelmed, Ryan is known for either coaching his players up or putting them in the right fit for the defense. It may not be an impact pick, but it still provides depth to a position where the Jets were thin. Grade: B

Brandon Dixon Round 6:
Another piece in the “Seattle Blueprint”

Seattle in New York anyone? This pick just screams Seattle blueprint for a defense. A small school prospect from Northwest Missouri St., Dixon has the size at 5’11 that teams are now looking for. A raw player with huge upside, he may see limited time this season but could eventually be a starter if coached properly down the road. If training camp goes well, Dixon may even push to be the third corner on the depth chart. A pick with a lot of potential, this could be a diamond in the rough that also addresses the woeful depth at corner. Grade B+
Quincy Enunwa: Round 6
More targets more success?

Another receiver? Must be the Jets. Though he may be a sixth round pick, Enunwa maybe pushing not only for a spot on the roster, but pushing Stephen Hill out-of-town. At 6’2 and 225, Enunwa is a great fit in the Jets west coast offense as a Z or X receiver. If he can work on his hands, Enunwa is a good route runner and can be another reliable target. While he lacks the elite speed as a wideout, like Evans he could be a solid possession receiver that at least provides depth. However, as a sixth round pick on a team now filled with receivers, Enunwa will have to have a strong camp to avoid the practice squad or worse the unemployment line. Grade: B
Round 6: Ik Enemkpali
Dark horse pass rusher?

It’s almost amazing that it took this long for Ryan to draft a defensive lineman. As a defensive end in college, Enemkpali figures to transition to a 3-4 outside linebacker in Ryan’s scheme. While he was a successful bull rusher in college it remains to be seen whether or not he can develop into a standup pass rusher. With Calvin Pace still on the team, it could give Enemkpali time to develop. However, I do not see him making the roster this year and he must perform well enough to make practice squad. With their scheme, Michael Sam would have been a better fit here. Grade: C
Tajh Boyd: Round 6
From son to father

You just knew that the Jets would draft someone from Clemson. With Rex’s son on the team, you just knew that Ryan would find at least one or two players he liked. With the quarterback battle between Smith and Vick, the Jets will now have a battle for the third quarterback spot between Simms and Boyd. Boyd was a dynamic playmaking quarterback in college but the question was could he be consistent enough in the pros? Hopefully he can develop and become the backup after Michael Vick leaves. It will be interesting if the will use him as an offensive weapon and possible try him out as a receiver Good pick for depth, but think Daniel McCullers could have been a steal to beef up the interior D-line. Grade: B-
Trevor Reiley: Round 7
The Diamond in the rough for the Jets

This maybe my favorite pick in the draft. I love this kid. The Jets stole Reiley in the seventh round and have a player who not only could make the opening day roster, but could become a very good starter in a short time. While he maybe 26, Reiley is a solid football player with a motor that does not quit. While he can be a pass rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, Reiley has the versatility to lineup all over the field. A competitive and hard as nails linebacker, he just screams Rex Ryan football player. He may not be the most athletic player on the field, but with his motor and football savvy Reiley could be a player teams will look back at and say why the heck did we not draft this kid? A player with versatility and who can impact special teams, this could be a great steal that the Jets have made. Grade A-
Final grade: B+: While the Jets may not have come away with an elite corner or big time receiver in this draft, they did get solid football players and provided much-needed depth to a roster that was incredibly thin. While I would have liked to see the Jets move up a few times to get a receiver or corner, they had a solid draft and clearly have a plan going forward. Despite the McDougle reach and waiting to the fourth round to address the wide out position, the Jets had a great draft and grabbed players in the later rounds with tremendous upside. While Pryor and Amaro will make instant impacts, this could be a draft where the impact will not be fully realized until 2 or 3 years down the road. Some people may not agree, but the Jets made the most selections in 2014. More picks, more chances for diamonds in the rough.

Barr Hopping: Should the Jets trade up?

April 16, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Would Barr be worth trading up for?

With less than a month to go before the NFL Draft, the New York Jets are preparing to find the pieces to get Gang Green back into the postseason. With a slew of Draft picks in a loaded draft, it looks like the Jets maybe able to do just that. While most people think the Jets should stay put with the 18th pick and select an offensive prospect, one intriguing possibility is trading up for one of the best defensive players in the draft.

There is no question that the Jets need offensive weapons. However, if they are able to sign Chris Johnson they may want to reconsider the top of their draft board. While wide receiver and tight end are vital needs for this team, the good news is that this draft is loaded at those positions with talented players being available in the second and third rounds. With that in mind, one player the Jets should consider trading up for is outside line back Anthony Barr. I know I know, the Jets need offensive pieces and help in the secondary. Why trade up? For starters this draft is loaded with talented corners and safeties that will be available from rounds 3-5, where the Jets have an abundance of picks. Using rounds 2-3 to address the offense, if the Jets can trade later draft picks or future picks to move up, it would be smart.

Of course the price has to be right, but if the Jets don’t give up too many picks, Barr would be perfect in green. As a pass rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, he could provide the dynamic speed pass rusher the Jets have been looking for. With the potential for double-digit sacks as a rookie and being compared to Demarcus Ware in terms of pass rushing, it’s clear that his presence in New York could be huge. The best way to help their depleted secondary could be by addressing the fronts seven. Passes can’t be completed when the quarterback is on the turf. With his flexibility to line up in different positions, Barr could make the Jets front seven one of if not the best unit in the league. Can you imagine the Jets stout defensive line with Coples and Barr as edge rushers? Talk about a nightmare for Tom Brady! If the Jets can make this deal a reality, Barr could become a dynamic playmaker for the Jets prolific defense.

New York Jets Mock Draft (3.0)

March 26, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Round 1: Brandin Cooks WR Oregon St.

The home run threat the Jets have been looking for

Even after signing wide receiver Eric Decker earlier this offseason the Jets still desperately need play makers at the receiver position. To complement the big bodied possession receiver in Decker, Cooks would be an excellent yin to Decker’s yang. What he may lack in size at 5’10, Cooks makes up for with blistering speed and great hands. With the Jets probably missing out on Desean Jackson, Cooks could be a game breaker from game one. With his 4.33 40 yard dash and pro day still ahead, Cooks keeps shooting up draft boards. He may not be a physical receiver, but his speed and ability to make plays in space could give Gang Green a great offensive playmaker.

Round 2: Troy Niklas TE Notre Dame

A solid all around tight end who could start from day 1

Even with Jeff Cumberland returning to New York, the Jets still need an upgrade at tight end. While he may not be the most explosive tight end in this draft, Niklas is a well rounded tight end. True, he doesn’t have game breaking speed, but he has soft hands and at 6’6 is a big target in the red zone or on third down. Plus, he’s a very good blocker which is important for a team that runs the ball as much as the Jets. Niklas has all the tools to be an opening day starter for the Jets in 2014.

Round 3: Cyril Richardson OG Baylor

Some more power for the power run

I can already here the complaints about this one. Why do the Jets need an offensive guard in round 3? Didn’t they just sign Willie Colon? Colon did resign, but only for one year and there are still questions about the offensive line. What was once a great strength is now a huge question mark for the Jets. Ferguson and Mangold did not look like their former pro bowl selves last season. To help sure up the offensive line the Jets should bring in Richardson who is a run blocking road grater at 329 pounds. Not only can he pave the way in the running game, but Richardson has great feet and is a solid pass protector. Richardson could be the Jets guard for the next 10 seasons and help bring stability back to a depleted offensive line.

Round 4: Terrance Brooks FS Florida St.

A ball hawking safety Rex Ryan has been waiting for

With three forth round picks the Jets can take advantage of this extremely deep draft class. First, Brooks would be a welcomed addition to the depleted secondary. A well balanced safety who was plagued by inconsistency, Brooks has the talent to be an effective safety in the NFL. While he may not be a playmaker in the back end, he does have a good nose for the ball and has great athleticism. Considered a hybrid safety, his flexibility will play well in Rex Ryan’s defense where players must be flexible and are asked to lineup in different positions. A possible starter in the making, Brooks represents great value here in the early fourth round.

Round 4: Stanley Jean-Baptiste CB Nebraska

Idzik struck out in free agency, he needs to hit a home run in draft

If the Jets mishandled anything this offseason, there is no question that it was the cornerback position. After losing Cromartie and failing to sign top free agents, what was once a strength of the defense is now a liability. However, if the “Seattle Method” has taught us anything is that good corners can be found in the late rounds. At 6’3, Jean-Baptiste has the ideal size and strength to play man coverage in Ryan’s physical defense. While he maybe raw and require some development, Jean-Baptiste could develop into a very good corner for Gang Green.

Round 4: Dri Archer RB Kent St.

The next Leon Washington?

Don’t let the size fool you. At 5’8 what Archer lacks in size he makes up for in blistering speed. With a sensational 4.26 40 at the combine, Archer is the faster player in the upcoming draft. Despite not being an every down back in the NFL, Archer could be a dangerous weapon as a slot receiver or with limited snaps in the backfield. Even in the passing game, Archer could be a great weapon on screen plays. Even if he isn’t an impact on offense right away, Archer would be a dangerous return man and give the Jets a great returner with the absence of Josh Cribbs.

Round 5: Ronald Powell OLB Florida

After injuries in college Powell is hungry

A tweener linebacker and defensive end, Powell could be a good project for Rex Ryan. With Calvin Pace getting long in the tooth Powell could become a great backup or role player in 2014. With and ACL injury in 2012, there are red flags in terms of health, but in round five Powell would be a good value pick to at least add depth at the outside linebacking position.

Round 6: Cody Latimer WR Indiana

Another receiver to add some depth.

After a great college career, Latimer’s size and leaping ability are a lethal combination. May not be a contributor every down, but would provide great depth a receiver and become a reliable red zone target. Could excel in a limited role.

Round 6: Reggie Jordan TE Missouri Western

A project at tight end

Jordan has all the physical tools to play the position but not the refinement. Despite running poor routes and trouble with his weight, Jordan has an ability to make plays and could develop well. As the third tight end or practice squad could become an effective role player down the road.

Round 6: Larry Webster DE Bloomsburg

Small school, big potential

At 6’6 252 pounds, Webster is an athletic specimen. Despite playing at a small school his rare athleticism could translate into a very effective speed edge rusher. If the Jets can develop him he could be a very good answer for the lacking pass rush they have had. If that doesn’t work out, he has all the tools to be an effective tight end and the Jets could mold him into a tight end. Either way he could be a vital backup or practice squad player that could develop into a great future Jet.

Round 7: Walk Aikens CB Liberty

Some more depth at corner

Aikens is another big physical corner who thrives in man to man press coverage. He fits the Jets man cornerback prototype and has good size at 6’1. Seattle loves big corners, its time for the Jets to follow a similar model. Aikens would be competing for a backup role and would be perfect for the depleted cornerback depth. What do you think? Do you guys agree? Who should the Jets draft in 2014? Comment below!

Why Johnny Manziel will be pick #1 in the NFL Draft

January 14, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / 1 Comment

Johnny Football will be the first player off the board

And with the first pick in the 2014 NFL Draft the Houston Texans select…. Johnny Manziel, quarterback, Texas A&M. Even though the draft is months away I believe that the number one pick in the draft is set. While some experts may think the Houston Texans will take Jadeveon Clowney or Terry Bridgewater with the number one pick, I strongly believe that the Texans will take Johnny Football to be their franchise quarterback.

Since their inauguration into the NFL back in 2002, the Texans have never had a true franchise quarterback. David Carr was a flop, and while Matt Schaub did have some nice moments, turnovers and injuries prevented him from being the Texans’ franchise quarterback. Back in 2007, the Texans were in a similar predicament. In that Draft, they selected Mario Williams with the number one overall pick over Texas’ quarterback Vince Young. While in hindsight this was the right move, I believe that there is still some regret within the organization that they did not draft Vince Young. Now, in 2014 the Texans may have hit the jackpot.

Johnny Manziel has electrified fans at College Station and is now taking his talents to the big stage. While Terry Bridgewater may be the highest rated quarterback by draft experts, Johnny Manziel is not far behind. While Manziel is widely known for his off the field shenanigans, the Texans should and probably will roll the dice on him. Sure he has his baggage, such as partying a little to hard at A&M, but Manziel is a playmaker and a Heisman trophy winner. The Texans need a playmaker who can get the ball into the hands of their dangerous receivers and revitalize this offense. With his arm and leagues, the Texans probably believe he can do just that.

Drafting Manziel goes far beyond just the football field. The Houston Texans need an icon. What would be better than a quarterback from Texas? He was born in Texas and helped make A&M a top program. Fans would love the pick because he is their player, a fellow Texan. In a state that is football crazy wouldn’t it be nice to have an NFL quarterback with a Texan as the quarterback. Sounds like a dream to me. Not to mention it makes sense from the financial stand point. Can you imagine how many more tickets and jerseys the Texans will sell if Manziel heads to Houston?

With Manziel in Houston, the Texans could be a playoff contender next season. They’re in a weak division, and despot their record have a roster filled with talent. If it wasn’t for the god awful quarterback play, this team would be far away from the number one overall pick. Sure many things can change before the combined, but Manziel to the Texans makes too much sense. It is his home state, A&M fans are close, he’s talented, and he’s a quarterback! Sure the Texans may trade out of one or go in a different direction, but if they pass on Manziel, it could be a move that this franchise will regret. Both financially and in the win column.

What do you think the Texans should do? Take our poll and comment below!

New York Jets Full Mock Draft 2014 (1.0)

January 14, 2014January 14, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / 5 Comments

Round 1 pick #18 Eric Ebron TE UNC
Geno Smith needs a go to weapon, and Ebron could be the best TE in the draft

The Jets need play makers on offense, especially at tight end. Young quarterbacks need a great tight end in order to develop because they offer a big check down target in the middle of the field. Dustin Keller was Mark Sanchez’s security blanket, it’s time to get Geno Smith his own tight end. Eric Ebron is a great tight end who can easily get open despite his massive size. He works well in the middle with great hands and is an above average run blocker. While he is a versatile player and can line up in the slot, some of the knocks on him is that he still needs to get stronger and run better routes. He would be a great player for the Jets, who are desperate for a playmaking tight end.
Round 2 pick#17: Brandin Cooks WR Oregon St.
Time for some home cooking in the Big Apple

Another weapon for Geno Smith in round 2. With a deep receiver class, the Jets will get a late first round talent in the middle of the second round. Cooks maybe undersized and not a physical receiver, but he makes up for it with his athleticism. He is a great athlete who can make plays and gain multiple yards after the catch. With the Jets lacking explosive weapons in their receiving core, Cooks would give Smith a receiver who can finally stretch the field and make big plays.
Round 3 Pick # 5 Michael Sam DE Mizzou
The Jets need to get younger at outside linebacker

Now Rex Ryan gets to add to the defense. While the Jets front seven is formidable, it’s unlikely the will bring back Calvin Pace who is 33. Instead they will need to find another 3-4 outside linebacker. Sam played defensive end in college, but projects to be a stand up linebacker in the pros. He’s a good pass rusher that plays the run extremely well. While he maybe raw rushing the passer and a bit undersized, he’s a ball hawk with a great motor. Don’t forget the Jets took Sheldon Richardson from Mizzou last year and look how that turned out. The Jets might want to bring in Richardson’s former teammate to help bolster their defense.

Round 3 pick #16 Donte Moncrief WR Ole Miss
Another building block at receiver

In the second round the Jets got Geno Smith a playmaker, now in round three they get him a go to receiver. While Moncrief ‘s speed keeps him from being a first round pick, he would be a steal in round three. He’s a huge receiver who is a matchup nightmare physically for corners. He has great hands and can catch well in traffic. While he may not stretch the field, he could become Geno’s go to target on third down and in the red zone. He would be a nice value pick here.
Round 4 pick # 15 Chris Davis CB Auburn
The Jets finally address the secondary

With the Jets probably releasing Antonio Cromartie, there going to need a late round cornerback. Even if Cro is back for the Jets, there are still many questions about the Jets corners. While Davis may not have the best size or speed, he is a tough football player. He’s great physically in coverage and is a versatile player. He would be a great fit in Ryan’s defense because of his versatility and physicality. He could be a starter or a versatile role player despite being a mid round pick.
Round 5 pick #14 De’Anthony Thomas RB Oregon
Speed kills

Thomas might not be an every down running back in the NFL, but used effectively he could be a great playmaker. He is the most explosive player in terms of raw speed in this class, and could be a huge difference maker. If the Jets use him on screens, special running plays, or as a receiver in space, Thomas could be another weapon for Geno Smith. Worst case scenario he could be a dynamic kick and punt returner for the Jets and give them a deadly special teams weapon.
Round 6 pick# 19 Crockett Gillmore TE Colorado St
The Jets need to add depth to a position with no depth

Many people may ask why would the Jets draft two tight ends? The Jets had no tight end depth last year and need a solid backup for Ebron. While Cumberland is a decent tight end, the Jets should give him some competition. Gillmore is a huge target at 6’6 and could be a big threat in the red zone. While he is a raw prospect that needs to improve his catching and run blocking, Gillmore has rare size for a tight end. If he can develop he could be a good second string tight end who could be a good red zone target.
Round 7 pick #18 Spencer Long OG Nebraska
A diamond in the rough?

Long missed the entire 2013 season with a one injury. Had he been healthy he would have been one of the highest rated guards in this years draft. While there red flags about his durability, the Jets need to address the mess at left guard. If he can get healthy, Long could be a decent guard as he was a solid all around offensive lineman in college. If he can return to form, he could be a dark horse to start at guard or at least be a good backup for Gang Green in 2014. Do you agree with these picks? Who do you think the Jets should draft in 2014? Like and comment below.