2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jets land superstar EDGE, Eagles triple-dip on defense
By Randy Gurzi
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Oregon. Kayvon Thibodeaux. 2. player. 30
2. New York Jets: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
Robert Saleh’s tenure as the head coach of the New York Jets has gotten off to a rocky start. Not only did they drop their first two games of the season, but they have looked like a team without much hope. Of course, that’s to be expected when they’re in the midst of as big of a youth movement as the Jets currently are.
The biggest part of that movement is clearly quarterback Zach Wilson who they took at No. 2 last season — which just so happens to be where they’re picking again in this mock. While they went offense early last year, they change it up this time as they take Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. Considered by some the best prospect overall in this class, Thibodeaux has some sensational upside. He’s incredibly long and athletic and to date, he’s been winning with his pure talent and athleticism rather than technical refinement.
Once he gets some coaching at the NFL level and develops more in this area, he could be one of the better pass rushers in the game and that could help Saleh start to really turn this defense around especially once he’s paired with Carl Lawson who was unfortunately lost for the season before his time with the Jets could officially begin.
New York fans have been frustrated and rightfully so. However, they should be patient, especially if they land a defensive cornerstone such as Thibodeaux.