NFL Mock Draft 1.0

It’s the first Rich Sports Talk NFL Mock Draft this year. This will be the first of many mock drafts that will be done this year including ones with drafts. The mock draft will cover all 32 picks in the first round and for this one their will be no trades.

However, you may be surprised how many quarterbacks come off the board given the talent pool of signal callers in this year’s class. Want to know who your team drafted? Listen to find out.

New York Jets 7 Round Mock Draft: Post-Super Bowl Edition

Round 1 Pick 20: Ezekiel Elliott: RB: Ohio State

ezekiel-elliott-vs-alabama-3c93244266d567e1Last year Mike Maccagnan went with the philosophy of taking the best player available when he selected Leonard Williams with the sixth overall pick. In 2016 look for the Jets to follow that same philosophy as they select the best running back in the draft class. Elliott has proven he can be an every down workhorse with back to back 1800 plus yard seasons including 23 this past season for the Buckeyes. Given the devaluation of the running back position, Eliott falls to the Jets at 20 and gives the Jets a workhorse and potential star at running back. Given that the Jets have three unrestricted free agents at the position, and Pro Bowler Chris Ivory in line for a major pay day Elliot not only gives the Jets a talented first rounder, but fills a crucial need.

Round 2 Pick 51: Le’Raven Clark: OT Texas Tech
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The Jets have two problems at tackle. On the left side D’Brickashaw Ferguson is past his prime and beginning to show signs at regression, while on the right side Breno Giacomini has been a huge disappointment and figures to be a cap casualty given his bloated salary. Clark figures to solve both those problems and could start at right tackle while being groomed to take over the blind side eventually. Clark will have to adjust from playing in a two point stance primarily at Texas Tech, and while he could struggle initially in run blocking there is no question that he has the skill set to protect the passer. Clark is a project but is the best offensive lineman and player available at this point for the Jets.

 

 

 

Round 3 Pick 83: Jordan Jenkins OLB Georgia 12669494.jpg

The Jets need to upgrade their pass rush and address that need in the third round. The outside linebacker position was anything but set in the Jets base 3-4 last year. While Lorenzo Mauldin played well enough to seemingly earn a starting spot at one of the positions, it’s clear the Jets need another edge rusher. While Bruce Irvin is an enticing free agent that the Jets will pursue, you can never have to many pass rushers and anything would be an upgrade over the 35 year old Calvin Pace. Jenkins finished with 10.5 tackles for a loss, 12 QB hits, and 4 sacks for Georgia last season. a hybrid pass rusher who can stand up on the outside or put his hand in the dirt, Jenkins knock is that he is not a great coverage guy. However, he shows great pass rushing ability and was a great leader as the team’s defensive captain. A smart player with a constant motor, he fits the bill of the type of player that Todd Bowles is looking for an could finally give the Jets pass rush a big boost.

Round 4 Pick 115: Cardale Jones QB Ohio State 

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There’s an old saying in the NFL. Draft a quarterback every year until you find the right one. Cardale Jones has tools that are off the chart including a rocket arm and great mobility. However, New York would be the perfect situation for Jones to learn and develop as a quarterback and not face the pressures of being the starter in year one. Given Gailey’s quarterback friendly system that gives the quarterback plenty of passing and throwing lanes, Jones could thrive in New York once he gets a year or two under his belt learning the offense. A sleeper pick that has top notch tools, Jones could be a franchise quarterback in the making if New York can develop him.

 

 

 

Round 5: Bralon Addison WR Oregon

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No team lined up with more 3 or 4 wide receiver sets in 2015 then the New York Jets. Given their value on the wide receiver position, Gang Green could always use another weapon. Addison is another burner from Oregon who not only could stretch the field, but give the Jets a slot threat they lacked in 2015. Another perk to drafting Addison is he would be an explosive returner for New York, something they severely lacked last season. A player that fills two needs is right up the Jets alley.

 

 

Round 6: Pick Traded to Houston for Ryan Fitzpatrick 

Round 7: Nile Lawrence-Stample DT FSU 

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In 2015 Damon Harrison was the best nose tackle in football. The problem? With Muhammad Wilkerson likely to get the franchise tags, big snacks will probably be playing somewhere else in 2016 as New York doesn’t seemingly have the cap space to keep every member on the defensive line. However, if Harrison has taught the Jets anything it’s that you don’t need to spend a high pick to find a quality nose tackle. Harrison was an undrafted free agent but New York will look for his replacement in round 7 with Lawrence-Stample from FSU. A second All-ACC selection last season he is a big run stopper in the middle which is what the Jets stout run defense will need. If Bowles wants to continue with a 3-4 base instead of a 4-3, the Jets will need to find a nose tackle to fit the scheme. Lawrence-Stample has the upside to be a great nose tackle in the NFL.

New York Jets Mock Draft (3.0)

Round 1: Brandin Cooks WR Oregon St. 

The home run threat the Jets have been looking for

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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.

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

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

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

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!

 

New York Jets Mock Draft (2.0) Post Combine

  • Round 1: Odell Beckham Jr. WR LSUdt.common.streams.StreamServer.cls

While I would like to see the Jets take Eric Ebron from North Carolina with the first pick, with his great combine it looks like he will be off the board as a top 15 pick. If Ebron is here, he should be the pick, but I don’t see that happening. I also don’t see the top three receivers on the board at this point either, but there is still some great receivers available. While he may lack great size, Beckham makes up for it with a great ability to get open and soft hands. He is a guy that can do a lot of damage in space and can stretch the field with a 4.43 40 that he ran at the combine. Think of him as a Cecil Shorts or Desean Jackson, not a big target, but a receiver that needs to get touches in a game. If Geno Smith is going to develop the Jets need to give him some play-making receivers and Beckham would be a nice fit.

  • Round 2: Allen Robinson WR Penn St.

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Surprised the Jets would take back to back receivers? Don’t be. It’s no secret that this is a position the Jets need to upgrade either throughout the Draft or free agency. With the rumors of Holmes and Hill on the chopping block, The Jets will have holes to fill. After picking Beckham for his speed in round one, it’s time for the Jets to get a big bodied receiver in Robinson. While he had a lackluster combine running a 4.60 40, he would still be a great value pick in round 2. While he may not have great speed, he has great hands and would be a great possession receiver. His 6’2 size and 39 inch vertical make him a third and red zone threat the Jets have desperately been lacking.

  • Round 3: Troy Niklas TE Notre Dame

nba_a_troy_kh_576x324While the wide receivers had a great combine, tight ends not named Eric Ebron struggled. With the tight ends falling in this draft the Jets may luck out in the top of the third round by getting a second round tight end in Niklas. While he won’t be an explosive tight end, he is a guy that can run across the middle and make catches. What makes him really special is that he is one of if not the best blocking tight end in this class. Given that the Jets love to run the ball so much, a tight end that can catch and block only seems to good to be true.

  • Round 3: Terrence Brooks: FS Florida St.

46While the offense could always use another weapon here, you know Rex Ryan will need some help on defense. Brooks ran a great 4.42 40 at the combine and shows very good range in the secondary. While he may not be one of the elite safeties in this draft, he projects as a player whose range and ability to play physical man coverage fits right into Rex Ryan’s defensive scheme. A starter from day one who could help the Jets woeful secondary.

  • Round 4: Ross Cockrell: CB Duke 28fpz1x4084-640x426

It’s no secret Rex Ryan loves to collect cornerbacks in the Draft. With the Antonio Cromartie contract situation still up in the air, it would be wise to add some depth. While he may not have the best speed, Cockrell has that size at 6’0 that the NFL is looking for in cornerbacks. Idzik had success drafting big physical corners late in the Draft in Seattle, so maybe Cockrell will be on the radar. He may struggle in zone coverage, but he is very good in man to man coverage, which the Jets utilize the most. This could be an intriguing pick who could be a solid corner in the NFL one day.

  • Round 5: De’Anthony Thomas: OW Oregon

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It’s no question that the Jets need offensive weapons and there maybe limitless possibilities in terms of utilizing De’Anthony Thomas. While his 40 was 4.50, there is no question no player in college football was more dangerous in space then Thomas. With X factors like Percy Harvin in the league, the Jets should take a shot on Thomas. Best case scenario is he becomes an offensive weapon that can lineup at running back or receiver and can break off big plays. Worst case scenario is he becomes an explosive return man, another position the Jets are looking to upgrade.

  • Round 6: Aaron Lynch DE USF

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While the Jets certainly don’t need  another defensive end, Lynch is too enticing to pass up. at 6-6 250, he could be a great piece on defensive being able to play the stand up 3-4 outside backer or with his hand in the dirt. While his motor is a question, at this point this kind of athlete is too good to pass up. With a similar build and style to Quinton Coples, and with Coples beginning to turn the corner at linebacker, the possibility of both these pass rushers opposite one another on the Jets defense could be a nightmare for opposing offenses. There are risks here, but this is one risk the Jets should take.

  • Round 7: Tyler Larsen C Utah St.1147653

While Nick Mangold has been a great center for the Jets, last season he started to show some regression. The Jets should maybe start to groom a replacement for Mangold and Larsen is a perfect fit. He’s a versatile lineman that could provide depth at guard and center. A powerful blocker that can punish in the running game who is very comfortable snapping and pass blocking. While Mangold could rebound, this would be a smart investment to have a solid backup option just in case.

Do you agree you disagree? Who do you think the Jets should draft? Like and comment below.

New York Jets Full Mock Draft 2014 (1.0)

  • 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

    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

    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

    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 recover

    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

    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

    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

    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?

    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.

     

Take off or Crash Landing?: Jets 2013 Draft preview

Ah yes it’s that time of year again. The NFL Draft will be live from Radio City Music Hall on April 25th and this draft is huge for the New York Jets. After a season filled with injuries and butt fumbles, followed by an offseason where the roster has trimmed more fat than Rex on the Atkins diet, the Jets need to hit a home run in the draft if they want to have any shot at competing in 2013. With many veterans being released and only a few low risk free agents joining the club, the Jets offseason has been highlighted by the Darrelle Revis saga. While I do think he will be traded before the draft and the Jets will receive some more picks my mock will be based on if the Jets Do Not Trade Revis. Hey I can’t predict the future but let me look into my crystal ball to see who gang green will bring in for 2013. And with the first pick in the 2013 NFL Draft the New York Jets select….

1st Round pick: Star Lotulelei- DT Utah 6’3 325

Another Defensive lineman? Lotulelei would look good in green

Another Defensive lineman? Lotulelei would look good in green

Ok I know everyone thinks the Jets will either draft Geno Smith if he falls to them at nine or an outside linebacker. Here’s the problem I see, Smith will be off the board by the ninth selection along with the best two outside linebacker prospects Dion Jordan and Ezekiel Ansah. If one of them are the Rex Ryan should run to the podium. A lot of experts seem to like Barkevious Mingo going to the Jets but I feel he’s a stretch in the top ten. Don’t forget not too long ago many experts thought Lotulelei was the best overall prospect in the draft. However, after a heart condition diagnosis, for which he’s been cleared, his stock has fallen. Enter the Jets who were 25th in the league against the run. Not the MO of a Rex Ryan defense. I can see  Ryan envisioning another Haloti Ngata in Lotulelei who would instantly improve the Jets run defense and allow the Jets to be versatile with 4-3 and 3-4 fronts. While many talk about the depth at outside linebacker, the Jets are also thin in the trenches after losing Sione Pouha and Mike Devito. While it may not be the pass rusher Jet fans are clamoring for, they will get another great defensive lineman. Just imagine adding him to a front with Wilkerson and Coples that will sure bring nightmares to opposing quarterbacks and offensive coordinators. Here’s Todd McShay’s review on his draft stock.

Other possibilities: Dion Jordan, Jarvis Jones, Chance Warmack, Jonathan Cooper

2nd round pick: Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia 6’2 245

While many feel Jones will be picked early I see him dropping

While many feel Jones will be picked early I see him dropping

Ok I know many people are going to have a problem with this one but here I go. While many people feel the Jets should draft Jones in the first round and that he will be a top 15 pick I predict he will fall to the second round and the Jets will be waiting. Don’t believe me? Jones has a spinal cord injury that doctors believe will end his career prematurely so teams may look at him as damaged goods. The other major knock on Jones was his terrible pro day where he ran a 4.9 40 yard dash. He reminds me of another player, Da’quan Bowers, a few years ago. Great pass rusher who had a lingering injury and a sub par pro day. Bowers projected  to be a top ten pick and fell to the second round. Here’s the other reason why. With this sub par quarterback class I believe the top of the second round will be filled with teams trying to trade up to get QBs and possible leftovers from round one. In the scuffle Jones will fall to the Jets. What does he bring to the table? A high motor guy who dominated in the SEC and who can rush the passer. projects to be an outside linebacker which the Jets are desperate for and could provide the pass rusher that Jets have been missing in Rex Ryan’s tenure.

Other possibilities: Ryan Nassib, Eddie Lacy, Larry Warford, Zach Ertz

Round 3: Jordan Reed TE Florida 6’3 236

Whoever is the Jets QB needs a security blanket at TE

Whoever is the Jets QB they need a security blanket at TE

This one was a tough one for me. While still waiting to see what other picks the Jets could pick up if there is a Revis trade this is an important pick. While a lot of people feel the Jets will draft a QB unfortunately Jets fans I think they will try to ride out Mark Sanchez until next years draft which is rich with signal callers. At this point Nassib and Manuel would a stretch and while I do think Wilson from Arkansas could be there the Jets will pass on QB in order to try to give Sanchez help. Enter Jordan Reed who led the Gators with 45 catches this year and a 4.76 forty time. With good ball skills and hands Reed can also provide big plays and stretch the field at the TE position. The knock of Reed is his poor blocking, but with the Jets lacking offensive weapons and looking to replace Dustin Keller, Reed fits the void. Add in the new west coast offense the Jets will run and that Sanchez’s favorite target is TE this could be a match in heaven for the Jets.

Other options: Christine Michael, Mike Glennon E.J. Manuel, Giovani Bernard, Shamarko Thomas

Round 4 Aaron Dobson: WR Marshall 6’3 203

Small school, big play ability

Small school, big play ability

Personally I’d love to see Aaron Dobson in green next year. After watching this kid for two years I have a feeling he could be one of the sleeper picks of the draft. His combination of size and 4.37 40 speed would instantly help the Jets lacking receiver corp. He reminds me of a Plaxico Burress, a big physical target in the red zone and a guy who can move the chains on third down. Plus he has great hands. Don’t believe me watch this (Dobson Hands). The main knock on Dobson was his lack of production at Marshall. There were two problems, one he was double teamed a majority of the time, and two it’s Marshall it’s not like there’s a great QB throwing him the ball. Let’s not forget another big time receiver to come out of Marshall who was very similar. You know Randy Moss. Either way if the Jets can land Dobson in the middle of the draft this could be highway robbery down the road.

Round 5: Quanterus Smith DE/OLB WKU 6’5 250

The Jets need edge pass rushers and Smith could be that guy

The Jets need edge pass rushers and Smith could be that guy

I know the secondary needs to be addressed still with the Jets but with so many holes the Jets need to look for big time players in the late rounds. Enter Quanterus Smith, who could provide the pass rush gang green in craving. Another small school guy, his stock took a major hit with knee reconstruction surgery in November. If not for the injury he would be much higher. While lacking the size for a defensive end but with a  6’5 frame and 4.69 40 speed he could be a great pass rushing OLB. One thing Smith does well is getting to the QB. He had 12.5 sacks before being injured in 2012. While lacking an explosive first step and being slightly undersized Smith, makes up for it with a tremendous motor and great hands to shed blockers. He may be raw but adding him to the defense could help to make up for a weakened secondary. They always say the best way to improve your secondary is getting to the QB and Smith would be more than happy to oblige.

Round 6 Robert Lester S Alabama 6’1 220

With the Jets exchanging Landrys at safety and Bell gone Lester could be a late round starter

With the Jets exchanging Landrys at safety and Bell gone Lester could be a late round starter

Well we know one thing about Alabama they can play defense. While the Jets offense was putrid last year Rex Ryan’s bread and butter is defense and with both starting safeties from last years squad finding new homes, and with the best corner in football probably going to Tampa, the Jets secondary needs help. If he is there in round six Lester would bring a solid SEC safety from the reigning national champions. While he does have good ball skills Lester suffered from inconsistent play and maddening errors in coverage. Despite his falling stock just being a starter on the Alabama defense should convince Ryan to take a chance on him. He’s a guy who isn’t afraid to come up and play physical in the run and has a knack for finding holes when he blitzes. Fast, physical, and aggressive sounds like a Rex Ryan ballplayer to me. Unlike most teams who are looking for backups and fill roster spots the Jets need to find starters at this point in the game and penciling Lester at safety wouldn’t be the worst thing in world especially here in round 6.

Round 7 Omoregie Uzzi G Georgia 6’3 300

Big and physical Uzzi could help bring back the ground and pound

Big and physical Uzzi could help bring back the ground and pound

What is it that Rex Ryan wants to do? Oh yeah ground and pound. We also know that Georgia Tech loves to run the ball so a former Yellow Jacket guard becoming a Jet seems like a match made in heaven. Especially in a pass happy era in college football it’s difficult to find road gratting offensive guards. While slightly undersized Uzzi does a great job of being physical in the trenches while being able to get downfield to the second and third levels. While most scouts will say that he has below average pass blocking abilities he is a better pass blocker then most scouts give him credit for. Another knock on Uzzi is that too often he is on the ground and doesn’t hold blocks well in the secondary. Despite his flaws Uzzi could be a day one starter for the Jets and putting him a right guard next to Austin Howard could give The Jets running backs some big holes on the right side of the line. While he may not be a Brandon Moore the Jets found another great guard in the late rounds in 2009 with Matt Slauson. Maybe this will be their next diamond in the rough.

Do you agree with these picks? Who do you think the Jets should take? Comment below