New York Jets

Top 3 prospects Jets should scout in 2017 NFL Draft

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 10:24 p.m. ET

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The New York Jets have an old roster as it’s never too early to talk about the 2017 NFL Draft. Here are the top three players they should scout.

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

I love to watch college football to get an idea of what kind of players the New York Jets and other teams should be targeting for the 2017 NFL Draft. These three players have stood out to me.

Scouting for the draft is an every day of the year job for the Jets’ front office (the other day being the event itself). Now that the college and NFL seasons are starting to get going again, now is as good a time as any to start looking at some guys that the Jets should be targeting for next year’s draft in Philadelphia.

The Jets, in particular, have an older roster and could use an insurgence of youth on both sides of the football so here are top three NFL draft prospects the Jets should keep their eye on.

Sep 3, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) in action during the game against the USC Trojans at AT&T Stadium. Alabama defeats USC 52-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

3. Offensive Tackle Cam Robinson, Alabama

Cam Robinson is arguably the best offensive lineman on either side of the ball in this upcoming class. He’s an absolute mauler in the run game. He also does well in the passing game but there are things he can work on. Mainly, his hand placement and getting a block on speedy edge rushers. Robinson also has had problems off the field which will be monitored throughout the season.

The Jets already have a solid offensive line but players like Nick Mangold, Breno Giacomini, and Ryan Clady are all over 30-years-old. Robinson is one the few offensive lineman who can step in day one and start. Overall, Robinson has all of the tools to be one of the best offensive tackles in recent memory.

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2. Linebacker Reuben Foster, Alabama

What can I say? Alabama has a loaded roster per usual. Linebacker Reuben Foster brings similar skills that his ex-teammate C.J. Mosley brought to the NFL. Foster has solid athleticism and versatility. He can play in coverage and also be a solid run defender.

He hasn’t really had a chance to shine with the overwhelming talent of Alabama linebackers over the last few seasons but Foster seems primed for a big season.

Unfortunately, David Harris is not getting younger and while the Jets have Darron Lee and Lorenzo Mauldin, adding a playmaker like Foster could ensure the Jets have a solid linebacking core for years to come.

Oct 24, 2015; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) catches the game tying touchdown as Duke Blue Devils safety Deondre Singleton (33) defends in the final minute of the fourth quarter at Lane Stadium. The Blue Devils won 45-43 in quadruple overtime. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

1. Tight End Bucky Hodges, Virginia Tech

Plain and simple, tight end Bucky Hodges is a physical specimen. At 6’6” and weighing 244 lbs, Hodges has the size, speed, and athleticism combination that has NFL scouts everywhere drooling.

However, Hodges remains relatively unproven but many cite new Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuente as someone who can really unleash the potential that Hodges has.

Jace Amaro is gone and Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker are also getting older. If Hodges is able to produce the numbers he’s capable of, he’s a guarantee to go in Round 1.