New York Jets: 2018 Offseason predictions through the draft

FLORHAM PARK, NJ - JANUARY 21: New York Jets Owner Woody Johnson (C) poses with new General Manager Mike Maccagnan (L) and new Head Coach Todd Bowles after they were introduced to the media during a press conference on January 21, 2015 in Florham Park, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz /Getty Images) /

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SOUTH BEND, IN – SEPTEMBER 10: Jerry Tillery #99 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish grabs the facemask of Dominic Christian #2 of the Nevada Wolf Pack in the first half of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on September 10, 2016 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

The Jets need depth on their defensive line. Jerry Tillery is the guy that fits what they need. Walter Football lists Tillery on both his nose tackle and 3-4 DE rankings, because he’s a versatile defensive lineman who can play both, and he would be perfect for the Jets 3-4 defense.

It’s rare for a defensive tackle to play nose tackle in a 4-3 defense. That’s the position that Tillery played at Notre Dame. He’s a skilled player who has a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He’s very similar to Muhammad Wilkerson in those aspects. Because of his experience, he can also be used as a nose tackle and compete one-on-one with centers.

Pro Football Focus Elite gave Tillery a Pass Rush Productivity rating of 7.2, crediting him with 30 total pressures on the season. They also credited him with 16 run stops (carries for a loss) for a rate of 5.4 percent. So, you can see the balance in his game. The Jets can use him to stop the run or attack the quarterback. Tillery would add a lot to this defense will the skills of Wilkerson without the headache, even though he’s 6-6, 310 pounds. He’s going to be exactly what the Jets need.

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