The New York Jets love Sam Darnold so much they went out and got his right tackle from college. The Jets selected Chuma Edoga, tackle from USC with the 92nd pick in the third round. This may please the franchise quarterback, but will it really help protect him?
The New York Jets Sought After Chuma
The Jets traded up one spot with the Vikings to make this selection happen. The Jets gave up a 7th round selection to do so. They probably felt pressured to do so after the center from Penn State, Connor McGovern, went to the Cowboys at the 90th pick.
Edoga started the last two years at Right Tackle for the Trojans and appeared in games all four years. He stands at 6’3″, weighing in at 308 pounds; which is a shade small for a tackle. The optimist would say he could work his way to Left Tackle, which would be optimal after Kelvin Beachum wears out his contract. At the Senior Bowl, he spent the whole week on the left side, and the reviews were positive:
USC OT Chuma Edoga had some impressive blocks yesterday at the Senior Bowl pic.twitter.com/R2NEDNCoJa
— PFF (@PFF) January 23, 2019
Edoga left his high school in Georgia as the state’s #1 guard prospect. He was moved to Right Tackle in Southern California. His strength is in the running game, and not in pass protection. For that reason, in conjunction with his size, he projects to the right side of the line. This may be needed if Brandon Shell struggles while recovering from his knee surgery in December.
So Where Will He Play?
Edoga doesn’t project to start right away. He should provide some much-needed depth and even provide a flexible 6th man type of role. The offensive line depth chart is currently in flux. Kelvin Beachum will return as Left Tackle, with Brandon Shell at Right Tackle. Jonotthan Harrison seems to resume the Center position and Brian Winters at Right Guard. The Jets also acquired Kelechi Osemele to secure the left guard spot. Adding Edoga will create young competition on the line.
Both Edoga and Brent Qvale should plug and play in certain spots. New Offensive Line Coach Frank Pollack has his work cut out for him.
Full of Potential
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMOuvku6b_E
GM Mike Maccagnan said he likes Chuma’s potential and thought he had the ability to play both Left and Right Tackle as well as Guard. The Jets might be best suited to return Edoga to his former position and move him inside. This team is woefully lacking interior depth along the line. Edoga should be ready to go at any position, as he is the type of player who would benefit greatly from experience. Jets fans will most likely see Edoga on the field this year. Whether that is as a reserve or a starter will remain to be seen.