Jets select Sanchez buddy in 7th round

The New York Jets selected Mark Sanchez’s close friend Scotty McKnight in the 7th round of the 2011 NFL Draft.

McKnight, selected 227th overall, is a WR out of Colorado.

Again, thanks to Rich Cimini for the following profile:

PLAYER: Scotty McKnightSCHOOL: ColoradoPOSITION: Wide receiverHEIGHT: 5-11WEIGHT: 185

Pick: Seventh round (227 overall)

What it means: Well, Mark Sanchez is a happy camper. Sanchez and McKnight are close friends and have known each other since they were eight years old. In fact, Sanchez served as McKnight’s personal QB at his recent Pro Day. The two buddies were together Saturday when McKnight received word from the Jets. McKnight is Colorado’s all-time leader receiver — 215 catches, 2,521 yards, 11.7 average and 22 touchdowns. With Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Brad Smith unsigned, McKnight will have a good chance to make the team.

How he fits in the offensive system: Like fifth-round pick Jeremy Kerley, McKnight projects as a slot receiver. He’s a crafty route runner with a knack for getting open. He was projected by most scouting services as a likely undrafted free agent, but the Jets evidently believe he can develop a chemistry with Sanchez.

Projected impact: McKnight will have to be a contributor on special teams. Problem is, he didn’t do much of that in college. Maybe his chemistry with Sanchez will help him gain a role on offense. They never actually played on the same team, but they have spent countless hours working out together, pitching and catching.