New York Jets: Early 3-round 2019 NFL Mock Draft

Round 3: Elgton Jenkins, C, Mississippi Stats

The New York Jets can’t expect to fully evaluate Sam Darnold without improving his protection. There are some positions along the offensive line that are solid. Others, not so much. As a matter of fact, according to Pro Football Focus’s recent offensive line rankings, the Jets have the 25th worst offensive line in the NFL.

At left tackle, Kelvin Beachum isn’t half bad. The Jets right tackle, Brandon Shell, isn’t great, but he’s effective against the run. Moreover, he’s shown the ability to bounce back after bad games. The problem is the interior offensive line, with the exception of right guard Brian Winters.

Left guard. James Carpenter is a liability against the pass and hasn’t been impressive as a run blocker either. Former Redskin center, Spencer Long was a bust for the Jets. While Jonathan Harrison hasn’t impressed either. So a center who can play guard makes sense.

Elgton Jenkins is a combo center who has played all across the offensive line at Mississippi State. In his senior season, Jenkins has lined up at center. According to Jon Ledyard of The Draft Network, Jenkins’ football intellect is one of his greatest strengths.

"“Good mental processing to pick up stunts and twists up front. Rarely blows assignments. Cerebrally, should impress coaches with his ability to recognize pressure and communicate at the pivot spot.”"

Again, a strong run game and protection in the pass game will only help the Jets maximize their investment in Darnold. Landing Jenkins in the third round would allow them to do just that.