Jets 7-Round Mock: NY Builds Out Roster as Draft Month Approaches

After a solid free agency the NFL Draft will see the New York Jets build out the rest of their roster
Mar 25, 2024; Orlando, FL, USA;  New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh talks to media during the NFL
Mar 25, 2024; Orlando, FL, USA; New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh talks to media during the NFL / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
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134th Overall Pick - Jordan Jefferson - Defensive Tackle

Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State defensive lineman Jordan Jefferson (DL12) works
Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State defensive lineman Jordan Jefferson (DL12) works / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Jets have struggled to find a long-term option on the inside to play alongside Quinnen Williams resulting in expensive signings in Javon Kinlaw and Soloman Thomas. The team could desperately use a long-term option on a cheaper contract while the team is built around Aaron Rodgers.

The Jets take a swing here with LSU defensive tackle Jordan Jefferson a 6"4, 317-pound monster on the inside. On a loaded defensive line, Jefferson recorded 2.5 sacks with 36 tackles while playing alongside draft picks Maason Smith and Mekhi Wingo. At Jefferson's size, it's impressive how athletic he is as shown with his performance on the combine.

The Jets having Kinlaw and Williams on the interior will be massive for the development of Jefferson who may not be ready to give an impact on day one. If Jefferson could develop in year one the team may be able to save some cap space as they continue to build up the roster.

185th Overall Pick - Christian Jones - Offensive Tackle

Mar 3, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas offensive lineman Christian Jones (OL35) during the 2024
Mar 3, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas offensive lineman Christian Jones (OL35) during the 2024 / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

While the Jets have signed Tyron Smith and traded for Morgan Moses to fill their holes at tackle, they'll need to add tackle in the draft. Smith has missed significant time over the past few seasons with injuries, creating massive concern over whether he'll stay healthy in 2024.

Here, the Jets draft Christian Jones, a 6-foot-5, 305-pound monster from the University of Texas. Jones impressed at the Longhorns pro day as NFL teams continue to move Jones up their draft board as a right tackle.

The Jets won't need Jones to provide solid play early on as their offensive line is set, however, they'll need an insurance policy for the future. If Moses or Smith suffer an injury the offensive line will obviously take a step back -- Jones could provide the team with serviceable play.