NFL Draft 2023: Jets’ needs and priorities for GM Joe Douglas after first wave of free agency
The Jets were quiet on the free agent front during the first wave this year, mostly because they were in the middle of the loudest story in the NFL: trading for Aaron Rodgers.
The deal hasn’t gone through yet, and the Jets probably aren’t done in free agency. The fact that they’ve been in on some big names – like tackle Orlando Brown Jr. (who signed with Cincinnati) and defensive lineman Fletcher Cox (ended up back in Philly) – tells us that the Jets are confident they can clear the requisite cap space they need to make significant moves. And take on Rodgers’ salary.
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But it’s likely that in addition to Allen Lazard the Jets won’t be making more than one or two other splashy free agent moves. We certainly wouldn’t rule them out of the Odell Beckham sweepstakes, or be surprised if they add any of the other players Rodgers included on his wish list.
With that being said, we have a pretty good idea of what the Jets’ roster is going to look like a month from now when it’s time for the NFL Draft. So here’s a look at some key positions the Jets still need to improve and who they should target.
CENTER
This might be the biggest need on the roster right now. There’s always a chance that Connor McGovern comes back. But the Jets need to save money and they’ll likely be able to draft someone who can play at a high level but at a good price on his rookie deal. Here are a few options, all potentially gettable for the Jets in the second round at No. 43.
Steve Avila, TCU: Experienced playing at center and tackle (as a sophomore), had a full season at center (as a junior) and finished as a right guard helping TCU to the National Championship game. The Jets love versatility in their offensive linemen. He’s ready to contribute immediately at 6-3, 330 pounds.
Luke Wypler, Ohio State: Allowed just one sack on nearly 450 pass-blocking snaps last year after not allowing a single one in 2021, per PFF. He’s experienced and obviously battle tested against the best.
Joe Tippmann, Wisconsin: He was briefly a guard before becoming the Badgers’ starting center for the last two seasons. In two seasons he ranked as one of the best centers in college football and he’s not even 22 yet, (and with a massive 6-6, 317pound frame) he’s got a lot of room to grow.
DEFENSIVE TACKLE
The Jets obviously have one of the best in the NFL in Quinnen Williams. But other than that, their only experienced defensive tackle at the moment in Solomon Thomas after they lost their two most important interior defenders outside of Williams: Sheldon Rankins signed with the Texans and Nathan Shepherd is with the Saints. Now the Jets have to add talent and depth at this position or risk taking a step back in 2023. Here are some players they could consider, starting with the No. 13 pick.
Jalen Carter, Georgia: Obviously, Carter’s legal situation complicates matters significantly here. But it makes it possible that a top-tier talent could fall to the Jets at No. 13. They’ll have to do their due diligence on Carter and see if it’s worth the risk.
Bryan Breese, Clemson: He’s big at 6-5 and has the type of athleticism that will get Jets coaches excited about him. He’s got a lot to learn but his size and explosive first step would make him an immediate factor and it’s easier to learn when you’re playing alongside one of the best in the game.
Moro Ojomo, Texas: At 6-3, 281 he’s not the most athletic or explosive defender so he might not be on a lot of radars at the top of the draft. But he’s solid against the run and consistently improved throughout his college career, so there’s every reason to believe he’s going to be effective at the next level giving the Jets reliable depth they need.
SAFETY
The Jets improved at safety this offseason when they traded for the Raven’s Chuck Clark. But they should be looking for improved depth and future stability at a position that is key to Robert Saleh’s defensive style and was a bit of a weak spot next year. These aren’t guys the Jets will be looking at in the first round but could be an option starting at No. 43.
Antonio Johnson, Texas A&M: He’s phenomenal around the line of scrimmage making him a potentially tantalizing weapon at strong safety, and he’s not a liablity in coverage – after playing slot corner in college. At 6-3, 195 pounds he consistently gets into the defensive backfield and makes plays on short passes to tight ends and running backs.
Jammie Robinson, Florida State: He’s a sure tackler, which is something the Jets struggled with at times last year so he’d be a welcome addition to their defense. He likely has to add some muscle (at 5-11, 203) to be able to play near the line of scrimmage as effectively as he did in college, but is ready for a deep safety role immediately.
QUARTERBACK
Obviously, the quarterback position has been a mess for the Jets of late. Even though that’s set to change with Rodgers, the Jets need to think about a future beyond the 39-year-old. And Zach Wilson sure doesn’t seem like that answer. So the Jets must consider drafting a quarterback this year, including as high as No. 13. (But only if one of the top guys is still around: Bryce Young, Will Levis, C.J. Stroud or Anthony Richardson).
Beyond that here are a couple of names that might be worth taking a shot at later.
Tanner McKee, Stanford: He’s big (6-6, 230) and clearly knows how to play the position and see the field, as evidenced by his quick decision-making from the pocket. His lack of elusiveness is not great in the NFL these days, but in the Jets’ offense which is all about making the right decision quickly, it could work.
Jake Haener, Fresno State: He consistently improved throughout his college career, completing 71.3% of his passes for 20 touchdowns and three interceptions in his final college season. He knows how to take care of the ball with 67 touchdowns and 17 interceptions in 29 college games.
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Andy Vasquez may be reached at avasquez@njadvancemedia.com.
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