New York, NY—-The New York Jets had a mixed performance in the 2023 season, finishing with a 7-10 record. While showing promise in certain areas, there were evident gaps in the team’s lineup that hindered their ability to compete consistently. As they approach the 2024 draft, the Jets have identified key positions that require reinforcement to address weaknesses and bolster their roster for the upcoming season.
Areas of Focus:
1. Wide Receiver:
One of the primary needs for the Jets in the 2024 draft is the wide receiver position. In the 2023 season, the Jets struggled to establish a consistent passing game, partly due to the lack of playmaking options at wide receiver. To elevate their offensive capabilities and provide support for their young quarterback, the Jets must prioritize selecting dynamic and reliable receivers who can stretch the field, create separation, and make contested catches. They are plethora of quality receivers in this draft so they can wait until the third round to draft one.
2. Tackle:
Protecting the quarterback and establishing dominance in the trenches are essential components of a successful offense. In 2023, the Jets faced challenges along the offensive line, particularly at the tackle position, which impacted their ability to sustain drives and execute plays effectively. By targeting talented tackles in the draft, the Jets can fortify their offensive line, improve pass protection, and create running lanes for their backs, thereby enhancing overall offensive efficiency. It wouldn’t surprise me if they selected Golden Domer Joe Alt with their 10th pick of the draft. He has rare length even for a tackle and follows the track easily when pulling.
3. Safety:
Defensively, the Jets aim to strengthen their secondary by addressing the safety position. In the 2023 season, the Jets’ defense struggled at times to contain opposing passing attacks and secure crucial stops in key situations. By adding skilled safeties to their roster, the Jets can enhance their coverage capabilities, provide support against the pass, and contribute to creating turnovers, thus bolstering the overall performance of their defense. With two picks in the 4th, they can draft Georgia Tykee Smith or USC Calen Bullock both should still be on the draft board.
Draft Strategy:
With the draft approaching, the Jets must adopt a strategic approach to address their pressing needs while maximizing the value of their selections. This may involve targeting top-rated prospects at the wide receiver, tackle, and safety positions in the early rounds, utilizing later picks to add depth and address additional areas of the roster. Additionally, exploring potential trade opportunities to acquire additional draft capital or move up/down in the draft order could provide the Jets with flexibility to secure players who align with their long-term vision and goals.
Jets’ 2024 draft picks
- Round 1: No. 10 overall
- Round 3: No. 72
- Round 4: No. 111
- Round 4: No. 134 (from Baltimore)*
- Round 6: No. 185
- Round 7: No. 256*
- Round 7: No. 257*
2023 STATS
In conclusion, the New York Jets enter the 2024 draft with a clear understanding of their roster deficiencies and a focused strategy to address them. By targeting key positions such as wide receiver, tackle, and safety, the Jets aim to strengthen their team and position themselves for success in the upcoming season and beyond.
