New York Jets: Grading The 2017 NFL Draft Class

Apr 27, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Jamal Adams (LSU) poses with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell (right) as he is selected as the number 6 overall pick to the New York Jets in the first round the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Jamal Adams (LSU) poses with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell (right) as he is selected as the number 6 overall pick to the New York Jets in the first round the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 26, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Derrick Jones (19) and Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive back Lashard Durr (25) battle for the ball during the second quarter of the game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

No.204: Derrick Jones: CB/WR: Ole Miss

Jones is an interesting pick in that he mostly played receiver in college and will transition to corner in the NFL.

Physically, Jones is a freak with a 41 inch vertical and size at 6-feet-2 inches tall. Bowles has made it clear that he wants tall and physical corners in his scheme. The lack of reps at the cornerback position will likely mean that Jones will spend the season on the practice squad honing his skills.

With the physical tools, the coaches are hoping to mold this project into an eventual member of the roster. The good news for Jones is that he goes to a team that may keep him giving the lack of depth on the roster.

It’s rare for players that change positions to land a spot in the NFL. A player that could have probably been signed after the draft, New York would have been better off trying to coach up a corner with experience from college or trying to find a late round offensive lineman for depth.

. . GRADE . D.

Undrafted: Connor Harris: LB: Lindenwood 

With David Harris on the downside of his career, linebacker is one position the Jets may need to find not only depth at the position but a replacement down the road. Connor Harris has a motor that doesn’t quit and is a physical hard-nosed tackler that will fly to the ball. He might not have the great physical tools but makes up for it with effort and anticipation.

Not only could Harris make the lineup as a role player on defense, but could be a special teams star. Given the way the special teams has struggled over the past few seasons, Harris could be a welcomed addition.