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New York Jets: 5 Biggest Positions of Need in 2017 NFL Draft

By Nick Ziegler

May 25, 2016; New York, NY, USA; (left to right) New York Jets quarterbacks Bryce Petty (9), Christian Hackenberg (5) and Geno Smith (7) during OTA at Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
May 25, 2016; New York, NY, USA; (left to right) New York Jets quarterbacks Bryce Petty (9), Christian Hackenberg (5) and Geno Smith (7) during OTA at Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Jets
Oct 23, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets free safety Marcus Gilchrist (21) runs with the ball after intercepting a pass from Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) (not shown) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Jets defeated the Ravens 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /

Free Safety

As mentioned earlier, one of the weakness on the Jets this season has been in the secondary. While a lot of blame has gone on Darrelle Revis, the whole secondary must be held accountable for the awful passing defense this season.

Coming into 2016, many were expecting safety Calvin Pryor to make a big step forward. Coming off a good 2015 season, Pryor had aspirations of making the Pro Bowl this season, and being one of the leaders of a Top-5 defense in the league.

While the Jets would be unwise to try and replace Pryor, giving him some help at the safety position wouldn’t be a bad idea. As of now, Pryor has not developed in a good coverage safety, and that is something that all teams need in the pass-happy NFL.

Marcus Gilchrist is set to make over $6.5 million next season. Due to the Jets’ need for some salary cap relief, moving on from Gilchrist wouldn’t be the worst idea this offseason. Far too often we have seen the Jets secondary look confused and get beat over the top this season. Gilchrist has been a non-factor for most to the season and is simply not worth what he is making. Adding a good cover safety in the NFL Draft would certainly help improve a poor pass defense.

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