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New York Jets: 7-Round 2019 mock draft in mid-March

By Stephen Smith

LEXINGTON, KY - SEPTEMBER 22: Josh Allen #41 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates during the 28-7 win over the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Commonwealth Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KY - SEPTEMBER 22: Josh Allen #41 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates during the 28-7 win over the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Commonwealth Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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COLUMBIA, SC – OCTOBER 29: Deebo Samuel #1 of the South Carolina Gamecocks watches on from the field against the Tennessee Volunteers during their game at Williams-Brice Stadium on October 29, 2016 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Tyler Lecka/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, SC – OCTOBER 29: Deebo Samuel #1 of the South Carolina Gamecocks watches on from the field against the Tennessee Volunteers during their game at Williams-Brice Stadium on October 29, 2016 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Tyler Lecka/Getty Images) /

Round 3 (68th overall): Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina

The Jets need to add talent at the wide receiver position and the Inman, SC native would fit the bill. The South Carolina Gamecocks product was an All-SEC team selection in 2018 after recording 62 receptions for 882 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games. Samuel also served as a kick return specialist, averaging 24.8 yards per return with a touchdown last year and four touchdowns overall in his four seasons with the Gamecocks.

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The 6-0, 215-pounder ran a 4.48 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine recently. He’s known for being fiercely competitive with strong hands and fine speed in the open field. Samuel is tough to bring down after the catch and is adept at winning contested throws. One concern is that he’s had hamstring issues during his college career, so the Jets will have to investigate that thoroughly. Samuel has the opportunity to be a solid NFL starter if he can remain healthy.

Round 3 (93rd overall): Justin Layne, CB, Michigan State

Gang Green needs an infusion of youth at the cornerback position after disappointing seasons by veterans Trumaine Johnson and Morris Claiborne last year. Layne can provide that. The Michigan State standout ranked first in the Big Ten in passes defensed in 2018 (15) and has rare size and arm length for a corner. The 6-2, 192-pounder has average speed but has fine ball skills to thwart completed passes down the field. Layne is an intelligent player who adjusts to route combinations effectively.

On the flip side, he’ll need to get into the weight room to get stronger and he must amp up his intensity to succeed on the professional level. Added muscle will aid him in run support as well. All in all though, for a late third round pick, Layne provides strong value for Maccagnan and company.

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