This offseason is a very important one. Last offseason the New York Jets splurged on two big-ticket items, MLB C.J. Mosley and RB Lev Bell. Joe Douglas, according to many around the league, will not operate that way. The expectation is that as a former offensive lineman, Douglas wants to build from the trenches. If you look back at how his mentors, Howie Roseman, Eric DeCosta, and Phil Savage have operated, they’re big value guys. Expect Joe to find value in free agency, but with a premium pick in the oh draft, his biggest decision will be at pick 11.
Do they upgrade at the offensive line?
The Jets offensive line has been disastrous for the past few years. They haven’t invested a premium draft pick on an offensive lineman since the days of Ferguson and Mangold. The Jets need to find their anchor at left tackle for the future. This draft class has 4 great offensive tackle prospects that can go in the first 15 picks. Mekhi Becton, Tristan Wirfs, Jedrick Willis, and Andrew Thomas are all great offensive lineman prospects, one SHOULD be in the green and white. The overwhelming consensus is that even if the Jets upgrade the offensive line in free agency, they will still pick an offensive lineman at 11. This should be the way to go, but what if all 4 guys are off the board when the Jets are on the clock?
Do the Jets get a weapon?
Ceede Lamb and Jerry Jeudy are phenomenal wide receivers. Both guys will have a lot of success at the next level. However, even with the loss of Robby Anderson seeming more and more likely, the Jets shouldn’t pick a receiver at 11. Most years, it would probably be tough to pass on two great talents, or even Henry Ruggs, who could be an option at 11 as well, but this year’s wide receiver class is one of the best ever. Many analysts believe that starting-caliber receivers will be available all the way until Day 3. The New York Jets have a 2nd Rounder and two Thirds and should capitalize on the depth in the class in those rounds. If the Jets don’t have the opportunity to grab one of those 4 offensive linemen, then they should look to trade back into the backend of the first round and grab an offensive lineman like Austin Jackson or Josh Jones.
Overall, the offensive line is the biggest weakness of the Jets in this offseason. Upgrading it is vital and should be prioritized over adding a wideout in the first round. So, Joe Douglas, it’s time to build from the trenches and build a wall around Sam.