New York Jets: Maccagnan holds the key to several teams’ draft fate
By Ed Stein
Keeping the pick
At number three, Maccagnan will have his choice of several impact players. Among those players at his disposal is Kentucky linebacker Josh Allen, Alabama defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and Houston defensive end Ed Oliver. An enviable position, yes, but also a tough call to make.
Allen looks like Lawrence Taylor 2.0 on tape. He is arguably the most improved player in this draft class since the 2018 season began. Williams is the recipient of Pro Football Focus’ highest ever draft grade for an interior lineman (started 2014). He comes with a winning pedigree after spending the past two seasons under Nick Saban. Then there is Oliver, a player with a huge upside and at one point was considered the best player in the draft. When his school, Houston, dropped off last season, so did his draft stock.
Other players the NYJ are considering here are a pair of defensive linemen. There is defensive end Rashan Gary, a relentless pass rusher from Michigan. Additionally, several mock drafts have the Jets interested in Mississippi State DE Montez Sweat.
In 2018, the New York Jets were quite poor at stopping opponents from gaining yards as evidenced by their 23rd place ranking in total yardage allowed. Any of the five players mentioned above (and a few that weren’t) greatly transform their defense. Getting more pressure on the quarterback and shutting down the run are two areas where Gang Green could use a big boost.
They really can’t go wrong here with the talent available.