New York Jets 2018 NFL mock draft
By Nolan Rich
Sixth Round: Jesse Aniebonam: DE/OLB: Maryland
It’s clear that the Jets need a pass rusher and they could benefit from an injury this past season. Maryland’s Jesse Aniebonam was injured in the season opener with a leg injury and didn’t see the field again in 2017. However, based on his 2016 resume, New York should take a flier on him in the draft. The injury will likely drive his draft level down this low which would make him the perfect low risk/high reward selection.
In 2016, Aniebonam had nine sacks, 49 tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, and a forced fumble. At 6-3 and 259 pounds he would fit the need for an edge rusher. Even if he may not be a every down player, Aniebonam has shown the ability to get around the edge and get to the quarterback with is something the Jets have desperately lacked in recent memory.
A day two prospect that has fallen because of injury is a gamble the Jets should make, and they have shown they are willing to make drafting Michigan’s Clark in the sixth round last year despite a torn ACL. The Jets must take a hard look at the medicals and feel comfortable with the recovery process. They don’t want another Dee Milliner on their hands. If they think he is worth it, Aniebonam might just be a late steal.