Thoughts on the 2014 New York Jets’ Draft Class

Feb 20, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Jets general manager John Idzik speaks during a press conference during the 2014 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Now that the dust has settled on the 2014 NFL draft, and we can look back without the event still going on, let’s start.

First, we know we can’t “really” evaluate a draft class this quickly. It generally takes three years to give a full evaluation of a group of college draftees. That being said, we know that the balance of what we are doing here is speculation. But, it is still fun to do so anyway.

John put together an interesting mix of players. I say interesting because he was always able to hit positions of need, yet stay with guys high on his board as well. He was able to add wide receivers, like Shaquelle Evans and Jalen Saunders. What he DIDN’T do, was add the players that we thought he would bring. How many of you were nervous when Odell Beckham went off the board? I know I was.

So it may sound minor, but it is far from minor. John Idzik has an innate ability to keep to his board, yet fill needs at the same time.

There are questions? Are these receivers going to be the ones that stretch the field? You can have a million weapons for the 15 yard crossing pattern, but if the defense is not scared of defending anybody deep, those weapons will be much less effective. Jalen Saunders is a physical receiver, which will help at the NFL level. I just hope they have someone that go push the football down the field.

Obviously, the Tajh Boyd pick is an interesting one. Some have said that his arm was the best available in this year’s draft. It does show that not everyone in the organization is thrilled with Geno Smith, and thinks he is the guy going forward. I actually am OK with going about it like this. Boyd is not going to me an imminent takeover, but Geno will know he is there. Tajh Boyd will help serve as the necessary motivation for Geno’s getting better.

Finally, does this class add enough in terms of depth. Look at the offensive line for a minute. We know as well as anyone that the Jets have had problems when starters have gone down from the offensive line. It’s been pretty bad. But, they only add one lineman, and Jace Amaro but he isn’t known for his blocking.

I reserve judgement for after the UDFA’s are invited to camp.

What are some of your concerns?  How about positives?