2019 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys turn the page, Raiders find pass rushers
By Randy Gurzi
7. New York Jets: Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State
The New York Jets used to be a premium pass rushing team, but as of late that’s seemed to dwindle some. Head coach Todd Bowles uses many blitz designs to generate pressure, but there’s nothing like adding a player who can get to the quarterback on his own.
That’s what Brian Burns out of Florida State brings to the table as a solid pass rusher. He has a furious first step and could help the entire defense improve. Burns has been a good prospect, but this season he’s moved up in rankings.
After recording 8.5 sacks in just eight games as a freshman, Burns dropped off in his second season. He recorded 13.5 tackles for a loss, but had just 4.5 sacks. Adding some strength in the offseason has seemed to push him over the edge as he now has 3.5 sacks in just his first three games with the Seminoles.
New York believes they have their quarterback and because of that, a receiver is also a possibility here. They wouldn’t be faulted for going that route, but it makes a lot of sense to get better on defense as well. They can make the group at receiver work, or find decent talent in later rounds. Premium edge rushers are much harder to find.