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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 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Jets offensive tackle Ryan Clady (78) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Jets 28-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Offensive Tackle

Prior to the start of the season, the Jets were dealt a tough blow when left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson decided to retire from the NFL. Even though Ferguson wasn’t playing at a Pro Bowl level for the Jets anymore, he was still a solid player with excellent durability.

With limited options, the Jets took a chance on a trade with the Denver Broncos to acquire Ryan Clady. There was certainly a lot of risks acquiring Clady, as he was coming off missing the entire 2015 season. When healthy, Clady was a great left tackle for the Broncos, as he was named to the Pro Bowl four times. Unfortunately, the Jets did not get that Pro Bowl player in the trade, and he had his season cut short due to a shoulder injury.

While Clady might be in the plans for next season, the Jets can certainly use an offensive tackle to either replace him or at the right tackle position. Since signing with the Jets from the Seattle Seahawks, tackle Breno Giacomini has been a disappointment. With the offensive line getting older and declining in production, it is time for the Jets to add some youth. Depending on Clady and draft position, a first round pick on a stud left tackle could be in the works.

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