New York Jets: Biggest 2019 NFL Draft needs after Week 5
1. Offensive Line
The Jets offensive line has been inconsistent to say the least in 2018. The peaks and valleys make it impossible to run a consistent offense. Where they need help the most is the left side — mostly at the most important position in football left tackle. (Yes, you read that correctly, because if you can’t protect a franchise quarterback, he becomes useless.)
D’Brickashaw Ferguson was the last offensive lineman selected in the first round by the Jets, and that year the Jets also selected Nick Mangold in the first round. Since then — a span of 12 draft classes — the Jets have only used one out of their 31 top 100 picks on an offensive lineman (Vlad Ducasse). So, it’s more than a Mike Maccagnan issue.
The Jets are going to need to focus their draft on improving the offensive line, because the free agent class leaves a lot to be desired. There’s very little talent, and many older players that wouldn’t fit into the Jets long-term plans.
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In addition to the age factor of the free agents, it’s better for the left tackle and potentially a young center to grow with the young franchise quarterback. In the end, if you can’t protect the quarterback consistently, the offense will be inconsistent. Now that they have their franchise quarterback, it’s time to move to the offensive line.