New York Jets must commit to improving their offensive line
The New York Jets need to improve their offensive line. It’s been long overdue. Here are four prospects they should consider selecting in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The offensive line is not the most exciting aspect of a NFL team to discuss. However, after the quarterback, it’s probably as important as any other area because it forms the foundation of your unit — how it run blocks and protects the quarterback in passing scenarios. It’s not a secret that playoff squads usually possess solid offensive lines. It’s no wonder why the New York Jets have not made a playoff appearance in seven years.
New York’s OL was mediocre at best and poor for the most part in 2017. It’s been neglected for too long now. Gang Green has not selected an offensive lineman in the first two rounds of the NFL Draft since 2010 when they took Vlad Ducasse, a huge bust. The Jets hit the jackpot in the 2006 draft when they grabbed future Pro Bowlers D’Brickashaw Ferguson (tackle) and Nick Mangold (center) in the opening round. That’s a long time ago though.
Every draft is about maximizing value and there appears to be no lineman in this year’s extravaganza that is worthy of New York’s first round pick (sixth overall). However, the Jets do have seven selections after the initial round, including two in the second. Let’s take a look at four prospects they should consider drafting (projected round in parentheses):
Isaiah Wynn, C/G/OT, Georgia
The 6-2, 302-pounder helped the Bulldogs get to the national championship game against Alabama by virtue of his superb run-blocking prowess. He’s also quite effective in pass protection as well. Wynn is expected to play guard or center in the NFL because he does not possess ideal length but he is strong and athletic enough to move to the tackle position if needed. He has a live motor and his flexibility makes him very appealing overall.
(Projected round: 2nd)
Kolton Miller, OT, UCLA
Kelvin Beachum was adequate at best at left tackle last year for Gang Green. The 6-8, 310-pound former Bruins standout could push Beachum for the starting left tackle slot with the Jets. Miller protected Josh Rosen’s blind side and enjoyed a strong 2017 campaign. He has fine size, strength and length and has experience at right tackle as well. He needs to work on speed rushes coming to the inside but he has the athleticism to be a starter for many seasons in the NFL.
(Projected round: 2nd)
James Daniels, C, Iowa
Jets center Wesley Johnson really struggled last season so they could definitely use an upgrade. Where have you gone Nick Mangold? Anyway, the 6-4, 295-pound Daniels was a three-year starter for the Hawkeyes and was known as an excellent run blocker. His technique is good but he needs to gain a little weight to improve his overall strength.
The Warren, OH native is adequate in passing situations but some improvement is needed in that area. Daniels could replace Johnson because Gang Green might decide to part ways with the veteran center, an unrestricted free agent.
(Projected round: 3rd)
Braden Smith, G, Auburn
The Olathe, KS native was a first-team Associated Press All-American in 2017 and started 41 consecutive contests for the Tigers. The 6-6, 303-pounder played right guard during his career at Auburn and he’d provide some much-needed depth behind Brian Winters.
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Conference Championship edition
Smith is formidable at the point of attack in the run game and is strong in pass protection. He’s very athletic with fine footwork. Smith has all the attributes necessary to become an every week starter in the NFL. If the Jets want him (and they should), they may have to use one of their second round picks to secure him.
(Projected round: 2-3)