Biggest draft needs, potential prospects
Newyork—aftermonthsof speculation, the 2024 NFL Draft is almost here.
Onthursdaynight,thedreams of many aspiring prospects will come true as they step into the spotlight as the first round gets underway at 8 p.m. ET. A total of 257playerswillbeselectedduring the three-day event in Detroit.
After what they accomplished in free agency, the Jets, who are selecting 10th overall, are in an excellent position. This offseason,theyacquiredthreeoffensive linemen (Tyron Smith, Morgan Moses and John Simpson) and signed wide receiver Mike Williams to a one-year contract worth up to $15 million.
“I think the moves we’ve made have given us the flexibility [we] like,” Jets general manager Joe Douglas said last week. “But again, we’re going to be sitting there, and if four quarterbacks go,we’regoingtohavesomedecisions to make at 10.
“We’re going to be prepared if our phone is ringing. I think, really, it’s a great opportunity to take the best player available, like it is every year.”
Althoughdouglasfeelslikethe Jets have flexibility, they need to address team depth at a few positions. Let’s preview the Jets’ needs and look at the players they could draft.
Team needs: OT, WR, QB, RB, S, CB
Players acquired this offseason: QB Tyrod Taylor, OG John Simpson,wrmikewilliams,dt Javon Kinlaw, OT Tyron Smith, OT Morgan Moses
Departed players: EDGE Bryce Huff, S Jordan Whitehead, DT Quinton Jefferson
The Jets have to feel better about their offensive line that will be tasked with protecting 40-year-old QB Aaron Rodgers. A season ago, the Jets used 14 offensive line combinations in 17 games. That played a significant role in the Jets finishing 31st in yardsand29thinpointspergame.
The team’s work on the offensivelineisn’tdone.theystillhave significant questions.
Receiver or lineman?: There are some who feel like the Jets are set on the offensive line with the addition of Smith, Moses, and Simpson.
However, New York will need to weigh the decision to draft an offensive lineman or add an offensive weapon for Rodgers. At No. 10, the Jets will have an abundance of wide receivers and possibly a generational tight end to choose from.
Draft prediction: The Jets have wanted to appease Rodgers by any means since he arrived. I don’t see that changing during the 2024 NFL Draft. Because of that, the Jets will likely select an offensive skill position player. There is a good chance Odunze might not make it to No. 10. If that is the case, Bowers will likely be the selection.