New York Jets: Time to move Darron Lee to the edge

The New York Jets landed a franchise quarterback in the 2018 NFL Draft, but failed to select an edge rusher. So now it’s time to move Darron Lee to the edge.

Last year, they linebacker of the New York Jets took a hit when they lost Lorenzo Maudin for the season. That meant they were limited on the edge, and as a result, the defense suffered. Even though they still have a need, the Jets failed to draft an edge rusher, and that should have been done on Day 2.

The Jets should consider another move, though. They should move Mauldin inside and Darron Lee to the edge.

In 2016 — the last time Mauldin played due to injury — Mauldin performed better against the run than he did the pass. He got pressure on the quarterback on only 7.1 percent of his pass rush snaps (via Pro Football Focus Elite) as opposed to a run stop percentage of 9.7. Last season, Lee had a run stop percentage of 7.1, but his pass rush productivity was 14.5.

That’s not the only reason the Jets should consider the switch. Even though the NFL has seen players of Lee’s size move inside for an advantage against guards, for the Jets, it would be better suited to use his athleticism on the outside and get to the passer. At 6-4, 259 pounds, and a stronger players, Mauldin would be better suited inside, and with his quickness, Lee would be a better matchup against guards.

Next: 2019 NFL Mock Draft: Way too early projection for next year

Getting Sam Darnold was great, but it will end up being meaningless if they can’t get pressure on the opposing quarterback. They can’t keep putting him behind the eight ball with bad field position and expect good results. There will be times they have to help him out.

The Jets absolutely need to make this switch now that they have their franchise guy. As the screen said at the draft — the future is now!