New York Jets

Top 3 priorities heading into 2017 NFL Draft for the Jets

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 8:15 p.m. ET

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Now that this season is pretty much over for the New York Jets, here are the top three priorities for the team heading into the 2017 NFL Draft.

Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) blocks during the second quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

With their embarrassing Week 13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the New York Jets are officially eliminated from the NFL Playoffs. It’s been a rough season, to say the least.

From their debacle of a situation at quarterback, key injuries to their star players, and a lack of urgency all across the team, 2016 will go down as one of the worst years in the history of the Jets. There isn’t much to smile about these days from this season but at least time heals all.

Now it’s just a matter of time before the offseason hits and Jets Nation can put all this aggravation and pain away. The 2017 NFL Draft will be here sooner than we know and well, it’s never too early to discuss what priorities the Jets should have to enjoy a better future.

Without further ado, here are the top three priorities for the Jets come draft time.

Jul 26, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Indian Hoosier offensive lineman Dan Feeney addresses the media during the Big Ten football media day at the Hyatt Regency. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

3. Offensive Line

This position for the past couple of seasons has been a question mark for the team that has many fans frustrated. The only reliable lineman has been center Nick Mangold who didn’t miss any games through his career until recently. The Jets could build on James Carpenter, Brian Winters, Ben ljalana who are very young linemen that can be molded for the future.

One person, the Jets should look at is Ohio State offensive lineman Pat Elflein. He is a standard interior lineman prospect that has been a standout for the past two seasons for the Buckeyes. He is an extremely solid player with great abilities as a run blocker and pass blocker.

The next player is also out of the Big 10 which is Dan Feeney from Indiana University. Feeney has stayed at guard where his ability to pave the way in the run is excellent. Feeney has the edge athletically, with the speed and agility to get to the lineup and down to the second line.

The final player will be Quentin Nelson from Notre Dame University who presents more of an edge than most players at his position in the draft. Nelson’s strong play could see him moving up rather than down as he has been a high contributor for the Fighting Irish. He provides a strong push in the run game.

These are three players who I think that could help the Jets improve for next season. They need to take a page out of the Dallas Cowboys textbook to how they draft their offensive linemen. It’s imperative for major success in the grand scheme of things.

2. Defensive Secondary

The secondary is a huge problem for the Jets this season that has caused them to lose many games. In the draft are plenty of candidates to address this priority. The Jets need to improve this position quickly because if they don’t it will continue to be a major problem

The first I would take for this position is Desmond King out of Iowa University. He is being compared to Antoine Winfield because he lacks size but has outstanding physicality. King is an impact run defender whose physicality allows him to be a pest in coverage and create turnovers. He has very high football IQ that many organizations would love to have a player like him.

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The next person is Tre’Davious White out of Louisiana State University who is player that can surprise many. He has the foot quickness and fluid athleticism to blanket receivers on the outside. With him using his instincts and ball skills to disrupt the catch point, he would be great for the Jets.

The final person I think the Jets should look at is Jalen Tabor out of the University of Florida. His skills allow him to play all over the field and generate game-changing plays. One of his best attributes are his abilities to read the quarterback. Tabor has good ball skills and is a constant threat to create a turnover.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) throws a pass against the Southern California Trojans during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

1. Quarterback

The position the Jets have had the most issues with is easily at quarterback. With Ryan Fitzpatrick‘s time coming to an end they will need to find a new leader to lead the offense. There are plenty of players that fit this description coming out of next year’s draft.

The first person is DeShone Kizer out of Notre Dame University who is ranked number 1 in most mock drafts. He is a better physical skill player and isn’t afraid of the spotlight. Kizer has superb accuracy and ball placement while being under fire. Kizer completed 59 percent of his passes which is impressive.

The next person is Mitch Trubisky out of North Carolina University who has improved his draft stock. He has displayed good decision making and overall accuracy. He has had three 400 yard passing games this season and continues to improve. He continues to move up with his draft status.

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The final person is Deshaun Watson out of Clemson University who is someone who can be a steal at quarterback. He is a very hard worker who will do whatever it takes to improve as a player. This season he has completed 68 percent of his passes. Watson has a decent arm, excellent athleticism and shows superb accuracy.

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