New York Jets reset with Trevor Lawrence in September 2021 mock draft

This could potentially be early to add a player like Derion Kendrick but, at the same time, it could also end up being a steal.

The Clemson product is new to the position and his raw nature shows in that. But when you look at his instincts as a player who played wide receiver and quarterback previously in addition to his athleticism, you see a piece of clay that at least has the potential to develop into an elite NFL cornerback.

Joshua Ross doesn’t necessarily get the same amount of love as another Michigan linebacker, Cameron McGrone, and that’s deserved. The upside of McGrone is bigger than with Ross. Having said that, Ross has plenty of experience and displays solid instincts for the position with athleticism that isn’t outstanding but isn’t a hindrance. For depth in the middle of the defense, he could be a quality addition.

Florida State is extremely difficult to talk about because of the state of the Seminoles program. At the same time, though, it’s impossible to look at players with the tools of someone like Tamorrion Terry and not take them in the fifth round.

At 6-4, 209 pounds, Terry is a big-play threat with good speed and the ability to separate down the field and win in contested-catch situations. He needs coaching on technique and discipline but the pass-catcher could be a real weapon that’s tough for even NFL defensive backs to match up with.

While the 6-3, 255-pound Patrick Johnson might not be a pure edge rusher, he’s a valuable cog for the defense. He’s been moved all around at Tulane as the best player on that unit, which gives him extreme versatility. Johnson can rush effectively and explosively off the edge but can also drop back as an off-ball backer as well. He may not be a superstar but his jack-of-all-trades ability and physical tools make him a high-upside late-round pick.

Unlike teammate Marvin Wilson Jr. or even Jets second-year tackle Quinnen Williams, Robert Cooper isn’t going to be a pass-rushing threat. But in the seventh round, that’s not what he’s going to be drafted to be.

Cooper has tremendous ability as a run defender, which is what New York would ask him to be. The Jets need depth, role players and everything else on defense and the Florida State product is a player who offers that with his skill set.