New York Jets: Should Dante Fowler trade talks heat up?
Now that the New York Jets have missed out on Khalil Mack, should they now set their eyes on Dante Fowler? Yes, if the price is right.
According to reports before the trade with the Chicago Bears went down, the Oakland Raiders were asking for at least two first round pick for Khalil Mack. The New York Jets attempted to land the edge rusher, but according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Bears just had a offer the Raiders couldn’t refuse.
So, what’s next for the Jets? Should they stand pat? Well, that depends on the price point for a trade, much like the trade for Mack did.
The Jets need an edge rusher who can produce pressure on the quarterback. Sacks aren’t the be all and end all, but they are great to have. It’s not always about one guy too. The Jets could play good situational team defense to get the job done. That said, it’s natural for fans to turn to the next player on the list, and that’s Dante Fowler.
There were already reports that the Jets reached our to Jacksonville to gauge their interest in a trade. The question is not, what should be the trade for Fowler?
The Jets have to consider two things. the first is the headache he’d cause. Maybe a change in scenery would help, but his issues go back to college. So, it may not be worth it. However, the Jets may think they have the right culture for him to settle into.
The second thing to consider is how much he would cost in terms of draft capital. The headache factor plus the fact they have to re-sign him are also big factors. According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), he’s a middle of the road pass rusher. He was tied for 33rd in the NFL among rushers with at least 300 pass rush snaps with a 6.9 pass rush productivity, which factors sacks, quarterback hits, and hurries (more weighted toward sacks).
He did have eight sacks, though, and that’s a decent number. He’s someone the defense would have to pay attention to, even though he’s not elite, which would open things up for other pass rushers.
Next. Winners and losers from Khalil Mack trade. dark
The Jets don’t have a second round pick. So, that means the package will have to include one of their third round picks, just to start. Two mid-round picks — whether it’s one this year and one next year or both this year — is the ceiling for Fowler.
In the end, it’s all about the price. he’s not good enough to overpay for.
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