NFL Draft Mock 5.0: Two-round mock, post-free agency
By Ian Cummings
The Jets have their franchise quarterback in Sam Darnold, and they’ve placed an emphasis on offense with the hiring of Adam Gase as their head coach. Now, after spending big in free agency on skill position players for Darnold to utilize, the Jets need to make sure he has time to work his magic.
Offensive tackle remains an area of need for the New York Jets after free agency, as the team failed to bring in any high-quality tackles off the open market. Luckily for them, the No. 3 pick provides flexibility, control, and plenty of competent options to choose from.
The Jets could ultimately trade back from the No. 3 spot; they’re rumored to be considering that course of action. But in this mock, they stay put, and fill a pressing need with Florida State tackle Jawaan Taylor.
Depending on your opinion of Taylor, this could be too high for the former Gator. He’s not the best athlete, and his movement can be a bit clunky at times. But Taylor is a heavy-handed blocker who wins off of power, leverage, and focused strength more than anyone else in this class. Even if his ceiling may be a bit limited, he should be able to provide the Jets with high quality tackle play for a long time.