Todd McShay’s mock draft has New York Jets taking a QB/LB

New York Jets
NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 25: The video board shows that the New York Jets have turned in their pick during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019, at the Draft Main Stage on Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville, TN. (Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Todd McShay’s third mock draft has the New York Jets addressing both sides of the ball through their first-round pair.

The latest projections from ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay has the New York Jets addressing their issues on both sides of the ball. In his third mock draft, the Jets would pick BYU quarterback Zach Wilson with the second overall pick while using the latter pick on Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari with the 23rd choice obtained from Seattle.

With the selection of Wilson, McShay noted in his analysis that he not fully decided on whether the Jets should let Sam Darnold go. He simply believes that no matter who owns the No. 2 pick, which could be shifted in a trade, the holders will choose Wilson.

“The logic here stands from my last mock draft: I expect Wilson to be the No. 2 overall pick, whether or not it is the Jets making it,” McShay says in his analysis available to ESPN+ subscribers. “Projecting this pick isn’t necessarily suggesting they should or will move on from Sam Darnold, but if they do, Wilson is the obvious next move. If they don’t, watch for a QB-needy team to trade up to take him here. Wilson is creative and can extend plays, he can hit the deep ball and his toughness in the pocket stands out.”

With the pick owned through the Jamal Adams trade, McShay has the Jets addressing their edge rushing situation. Ojulari led the SEC with 9.5 sacks last season and earned the defensive MVP award in January’s Peach Bowl with three quarterback takedowns in Georgia’s 24-21 victory over Cincinnati on New Year’s Day.

“They need someone who can get home on the QB besides Quinnen Williams,” McShay says. “Ojulari is a pass-rush specialist of sorts, showing good speed, bend, and first-step quickness.”

McShay notes that conventional wisdom dictates that the Jets should probably try to land an offensive weapon for their new quarterback, but he says that there are other avenues to replenish those areas.

“As for the lack of playmakers on offense to support Wilson, keep an eye on free agency this month and then Day 2 at the draft,” he said. “Numerous high-end receivers and running backs will be available.”

In McShay’s previous mock, he had the Jets indeed stocking up on offensive talent, using the 23rd choice on Clemson rusher Travis Etienne.

Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

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