New York Jets: Grading The 2015 NFL Draft Class
By Nolan Rich
How has the players that the New York Jets selected in the 2015 NFL Draft look now after two seasons in the league?
It’s now been two full seasons for the prospects that the New York Jets selected in the 2015 NFL Draft. This was the first draft by general manager Mike Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles as they looked to build the team in their own image.
While the 2016 team finished with a 5-11 record, let’s see if the 2015 draft class has laid a decent foundation for the franchise moving forward.
First Round: Leonard Williams Defensive Lineman, USC
When the Jets selected Williams with their first round selection in 2015, there were many who questioned the pick. With stalwarts Sheldon Richardson and Muhammad Wilkerson anchoring the defensive line, many questioned why the Jets needed another defensive lineman.
Still, it was clear that the organization went with the best player available approach and selected the highest rated prospect in the draft.
After his second full season in the NFL, it’s clear that Williams is turning into one of the league’s most dominant defensive linemen earning a Pro Bowl alternate role.
Williams was one of the few bright spots from the abysmal 2016 season leading New York with 7 sacks and two forced fumbles. In two seasons he has 65 tackles and 10 sacks and Williams appears to be the anchor of the Jets defense for the next few seasons and has turned out to be a great pick.