New York Jets: Multi-purpose players key to NFL Draft success

Many are focused on the quarterback position, but the most important thing the New York Jets need is players who can play multiple positions or do multiple things to build around the quarterback.

The New York Jets have quite a few holes to fill outside the quarterback position in the 2018 NFL Draft. They need a pass rusher, someone to fill the hole left by the departure of Muhammad Wilkerson, and they still need another tight end. They could also use depth at corner, given the nature of the NFL leaning toward 11 personnel (one back, one tight end), and they need help of special teams.

Given all of these holes, what should be happening is looking past position titles and looking at what a player can do on the field. For instance, a player like Dimitri Flowers should be a serious consideration for the Jets. Yes, a “fullback” should be considered highly, because he can run routes out of the backfield — both as a fullback and tailback — line up at tight end, wingback, and H-back.

When it comes to being able to cover, whether the receiver is big, small, fast, etc., Virginia Tech’s Greg Stroman can be their guy. He can also return punts, which is a valuable weapon the Jets need.

The Jets might not need a wide receiver — with 17 currently on the roster — but there’s a wide receiver the Jets can draft late by the name of Byron Pringle. He can give them another deep threat, and he can return kickoffs.

Next: NFL Mock Draft 2018: Two rounds with massive trades

In the end, this draft will be remembered for the player who the Jets take in the first round, because he will likely be a quarterback. That said, the players taken later, who have the ability to do many things on the football field, could make an impact that many fans don’t notice.

So, let’s focus on what a player can do for the team rather than what position he’s arbitrarily given. That’s what’s most important.