2018 NFL Mock Draft: New York Jets 3-round mock 2.0
By Sean Dyer
Maurice Hurst. player. 30. Pick Analysis. DL. 1. Scouting Report. Michigan
If you recall, I had the New York Jets taking Baker Mayfield sixth overall. However, with Kirk Cousins destined for free agency, I’m holding hope that he chooses to come to the Big Apple, or at least northern New Jersey. That is, of course, Alan Schechter’s dream.
If Cousins ends up signing with the Denver Broncos or Cleveland Browns, then Mayfield would be very much in play for the Jets at six. As would Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, or Sam Darnold if they fell that far.
For this mock draft, however, the idea is that the Jets quarterback situation is settled with Cousins on board and they can address another need.
That need is finding a replacement for Muhammad Wilkerson on the defensive line. Once a promising piece of a dominant defensive front, Wilkerson has in all likelihood played his last game for Gang Green.
After releasing Wilkerson, the Jets can draft Maurice Hurst to take his spot.
Hurst is a bit undersized for the defensive tackle position (6’2, 282 lb.) but he’s quick, explosive, and one of the best pass-rushing interior defensive linemen in this year’s class.
His lack of size leads to struggles against bigger, powerful offensive linemen and inconsistencies in the running game but he’s constantly in the backfield disrupting plays.
Draft Wire sees Hurst as one of this year’s top defensive prospects:
"A consensus All-American, Hurst has been one of the most disruptive defenders in all of college football, anchoring one of the nation’s top defensive line units. An explosive force at the point of attack, Hurst uses his quickness and well-rounded skill set to make frequent trips into opposing backfields. Hurst has the versatility to line up in multiple spots along the defensive line, and will be valuable at the next level, regardless of scheme. His nonstop motor, physical playing style and leadership capabilities will only strengthen his draft stock over the coming months, cementing him as one of this year’s top defensive prospects."
No. 6 overall may seem too high for Hurst but if he were bigger, he’d be getting top-10 consideration. Give him a year in an NFL weight room, and Hurst will become a dynamic interior pass rusher and form quite a duo with Leonard Williams on the New York Jets defensive line.