New York Jets: 2018 Offseason predictions, 7-round mock draft, Vol. 2.0

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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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – NOVEMBER 27: Nate Solder #77 of the New England Patriots in action against Lorenzo Mauldin #55 of the New York Jets during their game at MetLife Stadium on November 27, 2016 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

Free Agent Target: Nate Solder

I was originally skeptical about this free agency class of offensive linemen, especially Nate Solder. He’s always been an inconsistent pass protector, and it made me hesitate in putting him on the Jets in 2018. Then I had an “A-ha!” moment. He’s been playing left tackle, but he’s no longer a left tackle.

Pro Football Focus gave him an overall grade of 75.1 in 2017, which is fine, but not great. It’s a lower grade than he got it 2016, and his overall grades have been a roller coaster in his career. One thing that hasn’t been a roller coaster, though, is his ability to run block.

According to Mark Chichester‘s piece, he has had a run blocking grade on Pro Football Focus above 80 in five of seven NFL seasons. So, that means he’s a quality run blocker with some deficiencies in his pass blocking game.

In 2017, the Jets best offensive lineman was left tackle Kelvin Beachum according to the PFF grading system. The deficiencies in his pass blocking abilities make Solder a perfect candidate to play right tack for the Jets in 2018. Maybe the bookends of Beachum and Solder will help each other get the best out of their games.

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