The New York Jets are treading familiar waters as they approach the upcoming NFL draft, faced with significant decisions regarding both their current roster and potential new acquisitions. As talks wear on, the Jets are reportedly eyeing a strategic slow-play with star lockdown corner Sauce Gardner. His contract’s cap charge will not increase sharply until 2026, giving the Jets a lot of breathing room. If we put off the negotiations further, Gardner’s asking price may increase. When it’s his turn, he’s proven he’s up to the challenge as the Next Man Up.
In addition to contract considerations, the Jets are dealing with vacancies left by tight end Tyler Conklin and right tackle Morgan Moses. Ultimately, the team opted not to re-sign either player. They have yet to take any real action to begin addressing those gaps. The absence of truly immediate replacements might suggest a plan to address these needs through draft capital or internal development.
It was a much bolder move than the Jets made in 2005, trading out of the first round entirely. Rather than making a tight end of the future pick, they acquired veteran tight end Doug Jolley in the trade. As the team considers its options with its pick so high in the upcoming draft, this historic move resonates deeply with the present.
Tyler Johnson with the Los Angeles Rams. He opened up last season with a bang, reeling in five receptions for a career-best 79 yards. Meanwhile, Missouri's Armand Membou and Penn State's Tyler Warren have emerged as potential top-10 picks, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
Membou, known for his road-grading capabilities, boasts 30 career starts and concluded an impressive season with a notable combine performance. Warren even proved his versatility last season, posting an eye-popping 104 receptions. He compiled 1,233 yards and averaged 11.9 yards per reception. His elite blocking chops would be a huge boost for the Jets. Last year, their tight ends were the league’s least-productive group, managing a pitiful 8.1 yards per reception.
According to NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr., Warren would be a perfect fit for the Jets. That’s why he added this projection to his most recent mock draft.
"I went with Warren because they passed on Bowers last year, and I thought with Justin Fields, that would be somebody that could really create a nightmare for defensive coordinators," said Mel Kiper Jr.
Kiper's assessment underscores the potential impact Warren could have on the Jets' offensive strategy. His ability as both a weapon in the passing game and an effective lead blocker fits into what the team is looking for in dynamic playmakers.
As the Jets continue searching for answers at tight end, they need to figure out the right tackle spot in the meantime. Kiper pointed out that a right tackle could be something you might be able to find later in the draft process.
"I thought maybe you could find a right tackle down the line just a bit," added Mel Kiper Jr.
This approach allows the Jets to focus early-round choices on positions where they can secure immediate impact players, potentially reshaping their roster for the coming season.
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