Well, the Jets certainly addressed the needs in their secondary yesterday. With the reported signings of cornerback D.J. Reed and safety Jordan Whitehead, big holes at both of those positions have been filled. Now, it appears as though Douglas has addressed starting lineup needs across the depth chart and he can change his focus to adding backups and drafting the best player available regardless of position when the NFL Draft comes. In my previous article, I predicted that Douglas would target Berrios, D.J. Reed, and Laken Tomlinson. Now, I expect the Jets’ general manager to turn his attention to adding more weapons for Zach Wilson and depth across the defensive line.
Running Back
The Jets resigned Tevin Coleman and still have Michael Carter, so this position is not a huge priority. But drafting someone like Dameon Pierce or Tyler Allegeier with one of their 4th round or 5th round picks to get some fresh legs at running back would not be a bad idea.
Wide Receiver
There are likely multiple moves to be made at receiver, as Corey Davis, Elijah Moore, and Braxton Berrios are their only proven options at the position. I expect another veteran addition to be made, and then a top prospect to be added as well. Some names to look out for in the draft include Jameson Williams, Treylon Burks, and Garrett Wilson.
Tight End
Gang Green already made a big addition to address their most significant need with the signing of C.J Uzomah and just added another in Tyler Conklin from the Vikings. There is not nearly as much urgency now to draft a tight end but using a a mid-round pick to acquire someone such as Jeremy Ruckert or Jake Ferguson may still be on the table.
Edge Rusher
The defensive line is the one place that Douglas has not addressed in free agency, but that confirms it will be a heavy point of focus in the draft. Kayvon Thibodeaux if he falls to four will likely be the pick. If he does not, Travon Walker, David Ojabo, Jermaine Johnson, and George Karlaftis are other names to look out for. If the price is right, do not be surprised if the Jets reach out to Derek Barnett for depth as Douglas is very familiar with him from their days with the Eagles.
Defensive Tackle
On the surface, DT should not be a huge issue for the organization that has used countless premium picks on the position over the last several years. But with the departure of Foley Fatukasi and the disappointing play of the line as a whole last season, New York will be looking to the draft for depth behind Quinnen Williams and Sheldon Rankins. Jordan Davis should not be ruled out with the 10th pick, but they are more likely to wait until Day 2 after addressing more premium positions.
Other Positions
QB- Zach Wilson is the starter, Joe Flacco has been resigned, and Mike White was tendered. No moves are necessary.
OL- Unless Mekhi Becton is moved which for now seems unlikely, the starting five is set. Perhaps some depth moves will be made in the middle rounds, but after heavily investing in the offensive line the last three offseasons, it is finally in a position where it will be a top 10-15 unit in the league.
LB- No moves have been made to fix an underwhelming unit, but it appears as though the organization does not see linebacker additions as a priority.
CB- The signing of D.J. Reed was massive for the Jets. Now, they have a proven veteran to pair with their young corners. They have depth and unless there is a cornerback available late in the draft that they like, they could be set at the position.
S- Resigning LaMarcus Joyner and pairing him with Jordan Whitehead settled the Jets’ weakest position. They could still improve on Joyner via the draft, but it is not an urgent need anymore.
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