Jets Strongly Linked to Prospect Months Ahead of NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is still a few months away, but all 32 teams across the league are getting a jumpstart on the process by checking out prospects at the Reese’s Senior Bowl. The New York Jets are one of the teams taking a close look at offensive linemen after a poor performance this season.

The Jets allowed 64 sacks, which was the third-highest mark in the NFL behind the Washington Commanders (65), Carolina Panthers (65), and New York Giants (85). 

New York has used first-round picks in 2021 and 2020 on the offensive line in Mehki Becton and Alijah Vera-Tucker. However, it’s never a bad idea to keep using first-round picks in the trenches, and it appears that the Jets have their eye on a Pac-12 offensive lineman down in Mobile, AL.

ESPN’s Rich Cimini reported on Twitter Tuesday that Jets general manager Joe Douglas has “an affinity” for Oregon State standout offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga. Cimini adds that Douglas has been eyeing him for months.

Jets Rumors: GM Douglas Eyeing OT Taliese Fuaga In 2024 Draft

Fuaga is one of the best offensive linemen in this year’s class, as he’s been consistently mocked in the first round of multiple mock drafts. With Becton manning the left side of the Jets’ offensive line, there could be a spot on the right side for Fuaga. 

Pro Football Focus ranked the 6-foot-6 offensive lineman as the best run blocker in the nation (90.7). The Jets could use that, as they were ranked 22nd in rushing offense (96.9 yards per game) this season.

However, fans should remember all draft rumors and reports should be taken with a grain of salt around this time of the year. We’re currently in the All-Star game circuit, and then we’ll move to the scouting combine, where those rumors will start to pick up. That being said, it’s good to see the Jets are thinking about solidifying their offensive line, with Aaron Rodgers set to return next season.

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