Jets fill big holes with playmakers in impressive haul

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The NFL draft had just gotten started when the New York Jets began celebrating.

Another round of highfives and hugs followed 45 minutes later. And again after a few more hours.

Joe Douglas and the Jets were active early, drafting three players in the first round — the type of opening round the franchise hadn't seen since their four-player haul in 2000. They added two more playmakers Friday, and some depth Saturday.

New York's draft was completed before the fourth round was finished. But the Jets were understandably giddy about their seven new additions.

“I feel like we're a better team now than we were going into this weekend,” Douglas said. “I feel like we're a better team now than we were to start the entire offseason.”

This was considered a crucial draft for Douglas in his third full offseason overseeing things, as well as for the Jets, who are looking to end the NFL's longest active postseason drought at 11 seasons.

There were plenty of needs for a team that went 4-13 last season in coach Robert Saleh's first year, with cornerback, wide receiver and edge rusher among the top priorities.

Check. Check. And, check.

First came cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner of Cincinnati at No. 4 overall, considered by many to be the best college player at his position. While the Jets signed D.J. Reed in free agency to be their top cornerback, they now have two players who could assume that role.

Six picks later, New York took Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson to provide second-year quarterback with another speedy playmaker.

Then, Douglas got aggressive and traded back into the first round to snag Florida State defensive end Jermaine Johnson.

“I feel like all three of these guys can help (quarterback) Zach (Wilson) in different ways,” Douglas said, “whether it's helping him on the field on offense or getting the ball back to him as quick as possible.”

Same for Friday, when the Jets traded up again and took Iowa State running back Breece Hall in the second round. They selected Ohio State tight end Jeremy Ruckert in the third.

Capping their draft Saturday, Douglas & Co. took Louisiana-Lafayette offensive lineman Max Mitchell and Texas A&M defensive end Micheal Clemons in the fourth round.

“I think the biggest thing we did was add quality depth, add quality players to this team,” Douglas said.