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2021 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

By Randy Gurzi

Jan 9, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws the ball during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws the ball during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports /
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2021 NFL Draft
Jul 28, 2021; Florham Park, NJ, United States; New York Jets offensive guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (75) looks on during training camp at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

Grading every rookie from the 2021 NFL Draft: Alijah Vera-Tucker, G, New York Jets

2021 Stats:

  • 16 Games Started

Entering the 2021 NFL Draft, the New York Jets had two picks in Round 1 and after taking Zach Wilson at No. 2, they decided not to stay put at 23. Instead, they moved up to No. 14 as they traded the No. 66 and 86 pick to the Minnesota Vikings.

Once the move was made, they brought in USC offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker who played well as a rookie. And according to Jack Bell from the Jets’ official team site, general manager Joe Douglas made quite the move.

"“When GM Joe Douglas made a deal to move up in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft, some opinionated observers were skeptical of the Jets’ decision to swap No. 23 for No. 14 in the first round — plus sending Nos. 66 and 86 to Minnesota. That decision, which resulted in the drafting of a possible foundational offensive lineman in Alijah Vera-Tucker out of USC, now looks to be inspired and prescient.” — Bell, New York Jets Official Website"

While Vera-Tucker’s season was solid, he didn’t play at the same level as the two offensive linemen drafted ahead of him. He should still be a long-term starter but three picks for a guard feels like a high price to pay, which is part of the reason this grade isn’t higher.

Grade: B-

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