New York Jets Draft Day Needs!

[Reaper]

New York Jets

Team needs: OLB/DE, CB, TE, OL, DT

Overall pick/round: 25 (1), 59 (2), 63 (2), 89 (3), 164 (5), 177 (6)

 

OLB/DE: The Jets have tried to address this position through free agency. However, David Bowens has been used primarily as a situational pass rusher and the last time former first-round pick Andre Wadsworth played in the NFL, most of this year's draft eligible prospects were in junior high school. They need to find an edge rusher who can provide the type of pressure and havoc created by John Abraham. Adding Kenyon Coleman gives them a younger defender to challenge Kimo von Oelhoffen, but a playmaker in the front seven is what could put this defense in position to making another playoff run.

 

CB: This is the other pressing need as they have not found an adequate replacement since letting go of veteran Ty Law leave via free agency a year ago. Ideally, the Jets are searching for someone like Eric Mangini's former pupil Asante Samuel, a defender with sound technique, good football instincts and the ability to learn and retain information quickly. The Jets could find themselves in position to take someone like Daymeion Hughes, Michael Coe or Josh Wilson with one of their two, second round picks.

 

TE: Many felt the Jets would address this need in last year's draft. Instead, they waited until day two and picked more of a blocker, a move that failed to drastically improve the offense. Greg Olsen is likely to be off the board before the Jets select at No. 25 and Zach Miller does not fit the profile. A name to keep a close eye on is Ben Patrick, the former Delaware/Duke prospect who has very good hands, good speed and the intangibles that the Jets' staff desires. He could be a surprise pick late in the second round.

 

OL: The Jets pulled off a daily double last year by adding a franchise tackle and future All-Pro center. This year, they should find some good role players in the mid-to-late rounds to help support the talented blockers from the '06 draft. A possible challenger for the left guard spot and a swingman type that could back up at guard and right tackle would promote excellent competition this summer.

 

DT: What the Jets are looking for here is a space-eater type that has a good enough motor to provide rest for starter Dewayne Robertson. They are unlikely to spend a high choice on this position, but several second-day prospects could give them some much needed push up the middle off the bench. Keep an eye on Walter Thomas, Kelly Talavou, Ola Dagunduro or Louis Leonard.