The New York Jets have a total of 10selections in the 2021 NFL Draft and, while their early picks will be crucial, hitting on some late-round sleepers would be massive.
The 2021 NFL Draft is almost here and the New York Jets are loaded with draft capital. Gang Green owns a plethora of picks (10 in all), including five from the fourth round on.
General manager Joe Douglas has one pick in Round 4 (No. 107 overall), two in the fifth round (Nos. 146, 154) and a pair in Round 6 (Nos. 186, 226). The Jets have a great opportunity to build depth on a depleted roster.
Let’s take a look at three possible late-round sleepers that Douglas and company should keep in mind when they are on the clock for the New York Jets.
Late-round sleepers the New York Jets could target in the 2021 NFL Draft
3. Kene Nwangwu, RB, Iowa State
It wouldn’t shock me at all if Douglas selects Alabama’s Najee Harris or Travis Etienne with the 23rd or 34th overall selection. But if he doesn’t, the speedy Kene Nwangwu would be a welcome late-round addition to New York’s roster.
The 6-0, 210-pounder ran an impressive 4.31 seconds in the 40-yard dash and would double as a serious special teams threat (he averaged 26.8 yards per kickoff return for the Cyclones). When was the last time the Jets had someone like that? Leon Washington, anyone?
Nwangwu averaged 5.2 yards per carry at Iowa State (143 attempts) and chipped in with 57 receptions for 801 yards as well. His appeal is his scintillating speed, something you can’t teach. He’s dynamic in the open field and would be a welcome addition to the running back depth chart.
2. Brandon Stephens, CB, SMU
Upgrading the cornerback position has to be one of the key elements of Douglas’ draft. Look for him to grab one in the first three rounds and add some depth later and Brandon Stephens would be a strong selection on Day 3.
The Plano, TX native has solid size at 6-0, 213 pounds and is a former four-star running back prospect so there is no doubt about his athleticism. He should only get better with more experience. Stephens was the team captain for the Mustangs, which speaks volumes regarding his leadership qualities and he excelled on the gridiron as well with a team-high 10 pass breakups in his senior campaign.
He projects as a nickel or dime back initially and a viable special teams performer.
1. Tre McKitty, TE, Georgia
There will certainly be no Kyle Pitts available on Day 3 but there is still talent to be had in the later rounds at the tight end position. Let’s face it, the Jets haven’t had a top-notch tight end since Mickey Shuler back during the Ronald Reagan years.
After transfering from Florida State, Tre’ McKitty averaged 18 yards a catch (on just six receptions) and tallied a touchdown for the Bulldogs in 2020. He was invited to the Senior Bowl though and his size (6-5, 245 pound) makes him a viable red zone target at the next level. He needs to improve his blocking at the point of attack and his route running.
McKitty possesses a fine burst off his breaks and has strong hands. He’s best suited to running middle seam routes. The Wesley Chapel, FL native needs to develop his all-around game more but he has a high ceiling with the proper coaching.