New York Jets 2018 Rookie Profile: Dimitri Flowers
Dimitri Flowers is the most intriguing rookie prospects the New York Jets added to their roster in 2018. He could play a huge role on the team if he makes the roster.
When it comes to positions on offense that are talked about, fullback generally would be down the list a bit, even below some positions of the offensive line. When the New York Jets signed Oklahoma fullback Dimitri Flowers as an undrafted free agent, their roster became even more interesting than it was with Sam Darnold on it.
They got lucky for the second time in the draft process that, after 256 selections, Flowers’ name wasn’t called — the first was when Darnold fell to them, of course.
Flowers is listed as a fullback, but that’s because “Swiss Army knife” isn’t an official NFL position. His value to the Jets is much more than just that of lead blocker when the Jets use a two back set.
He can line up alone in the backfield and be used as a pass-catcher or an extra blocker in pass protection. He can line up in the tradition fullback position and lead block or catch passes from there, and Flowers can line up on the line of scrimmage or just off of it in a tight end or wingback position.
The former Sooner is not exceptionally fast, but he’s strong enough to create separation. He will get the tough yards the Jets need in short-yardage and goal line situations. According to Pro Football Focus Elite, he led the nation in yards per route run from the tight end position.
In the end, it’s up to how the Jets will use Flowers, if he makes the team. However, he’s not the only versatile player on this offense. Flowers will be a key contributor to the Jets, and they need to use him in a variety of ways.
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Some say the Jets needed to add tight end depth in the draft. They did, with Flowers. Finally, his versatility will lead to success through a more open playbook, and give another security blanket to the rookie quarterback. He might just be their most important pickup in this draft, outside of Darnold.