2019 NFL Mock Draft: Surprise teams land quarterbacks in first round
By Randy Gurzi
2. New York Jets: A.J. Brown, Ole Miss, WR
It’s not like the New York Jets have bad receivers, but they don’t have that prototypical go-to guy. Both Jermaine Kearse and Robby Anderson are solid players — with Anderson being dangerously explosive. However, neither have been able to carry the load on their own and Anderson gives the team reason to worry with some off-field trouble in his past.
On top of that, this is a pass-happy NFL and you can never have too many good wide receivers — especially when you’re trying to set your new, young quarterback up for success. No. 3 overall pick Sam Darnold is going to be under center this season as a rookie for Gang Green and in order for him to have sustained success, the Jets have to keep playmakers on the field with him.
Enter Ole Miss wideout A.J. Brown. At 6-1 and 225 pounds, he’s a big bodied receiver that can develop into Darnold’s favorite target. He’s not considered a burner necessarily, but the Jets have deep speed with both Kearse and Anderson. Brown offers a player who can win with his clean route running and the physical nature of his play.
New York is drafting again early here simply because their new quarterback needs help to turn things around. Browns brings some of that to the table.