Will the New York Jets consider a wide receiver in the first round? If so, who should it be?
The New York Jets letting Robbie Anderson hit free agency tells us one thing, they are looking to add another wide receiver one way or another. The upcoming draft class of receivers is plentiful, headlined by Alabama stand out Jerry Jeudy and Oklahoma offensive playmaker, Ceedee Lamb.
Both options represent a massive upgrade at the number one wide receiver position for the Jets, but which one makes more sense in New York under third-year passer, Sam Darnold?
ESPN’s Todd McShay mocked Jeudy to the Jets with the 11th overall pick, stating:
“[Mekhi] Becton also would make sense here, as that offensive line still needs work, but Jeudy is the class’ best route runner and top wideout available. How can the Jets, who would be entering the season with Jamison Crowder and Breshad Perriman as their top two wide receivers, pass on this type of playmaker? The Jets were one of four NFL teams to average fewer than 200 passing yards and score fewer than 20 passing touchdowns last season, and that was with Robby Anderson still in green.”
Currently, the jets feature both Jamison Crowder and Breshad Perriman as their top two wideouts. Both are quality players but don’t represent a number one pass-catcher who can make plays and electrify MetLife Stadium. Jeudy has the ability to make tacklers miss an open space and break free in the secondary, which is what I like about the Alabama product.
Darnold needs a true downfield threat, after losing Anderson to the Seattle Seahawks this off-season. Judy can offer that and so much more with his quick-twitch abilities and consistent hands.
The alternative to Jeudy is Lamb, who also offers immense capabilities and downfield production. While Todd McShay recommended the Jets take Jerry, NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah believes that Lamb fits the bill more efficiently.
Lamb is a reliable receiver who is known for winning contested jump balls. In 13 games last season, the offensive weapon posted 62 catches for 1,327 yards and 14 touchdowns. While both wideouts would upgrade the offense significantly, I believe Jeudy is the better option for the Jets who need a more agile receiver with elite speed.
Lamb doesn’t have top-end speed but checks every other box possible. He has exceptionally smooth feet and is an elite route-runner. He can feature as a number one wide receiver right out of the gate, similar to Jeudy. However, Darnold needs a fast WR who has room to develop. Nonetheless, both players are fantastic and would bring significant value to Gang Green.