New York Jets: 3 Tight end targets in 2018 NFL Draft
The New York Jets need to improve their talent at the tight end position. Here are three prospects to target in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The 2018 NFL Draft is almost here. Finally. The New York Jets will have some very important decisions to make in rounds three through seven after selecting their new franchise quarterback in the opening round.
One thing looks certain — Gang Green will miss tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins this coming season. Sure, he doesn’t remind anyone of Rob Gronkowski or Tony Gonzalez, but he was an effective red zone target for quarterback Josh McCown.
ASJ recorded 50 receptions for New York last year and tallied three touchdowns. In the 2015 and 2016 seasons combined, all Jets tight ends finished with a grand total of 26 catches. Yes, Seferian-Jenkins, now a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars, will be missed.
The Jets rediscovered the tight end last year. They need to make it an integral part of their offensive scheme again in 2018. Their current tight end depth chart consists of Jordan Leggett, Clive Walford and Eric Tomlinson. Yikes. That is very shaky at best. General manager Mike Maccagnan has to upgrade this position via the draft.
Here are three prospects Maccagnan should target if they are available (projected round in parentheses):
3. Ian Thomas, Indiana
The 6-4, 259-pounder played just two seasons with the Hoosiers after transferring from junior college. He averaged 15.0 yards per reception (25 catches) and scored five touchdowns in nine games in 2017. Thomas projects as viable vertical threat in the pros due to his speed and athleticism.
Let’s take a look at some of his highlights:
The Baltimore, MD native possesses a strong, muscular frame and would make an excellent red zone target for the Jets. He has a quick burst off the line of scrimmage to find open holes in the seam and he’s adept at breaking tackles and completing the reception through contact. Thomas is not afraid to take tacklers head on. That will take its toll in the NFL but you have to love his desire. He needs to learn to elude defenders though, not try to punish them.
The video clearly shows how talented Thomas is but he’s still raw at this point. He has good hands but he needs to increase his route tree. His route running needs improvement. He’s not a premier run blocker. However, Thomas has a very high ceiling and has the ability to become a starter in the NFL. He just needs more reps, more experience. Thomas would be a fine choice in the third round.
(Projected round: 3)