New York Jets: 3-Round 2019 mock draft in early December

Round 3 (First Pick): Ross Pierschbacher, C/G, Alabama

The University of Alabama is known for their toughness and grit, especially on the line on both sided of the football. Pierschbacher is the personification of that toughness and grit.

When you think of the Crimson Tide, you probably think of two things — until the emergence of Tua Tugavaiola — the defense and the running game. One of spearheads of the running game is Pierschbacher. He has the strength to move anyone. He came into Alabama, he was a guard, and he moved to center as a senior. That versatility only helps him in the draft process.

Pierschbacher isn’t just a mauler on the offensive line, though. To go along with his strength at the point of attack, he adds an athletic element to his game as well. If the Jets want to use him out on the edge for the running game, he is athletic enough to pull from both positions.

His combination of strength and athleticism is just what the doctor ordered in this new NFL. The Jets will be able to open things up on the outside and also have protection in the middle for Darnold. Similar to offensive tackle Jason Fabini in the 1998 NFL Draft, he will be quite the find in the middle of the draft.