New York Jets: 2015 NFL Draft Prospects

Jul 24, 2014; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets general manager John Idzik looks on during training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

John Idzik has been the man calling the shots for the New York Jets the last two seasons on draft day. Much has been written about his choices, their successes and their failures. As a result, by many reports, Mr. Idzik finds himself on the “hot seat”. The jury may still be out on his draft classes, but if you listen to the fan base, the jury has come back with a “guilty” charge when it comes to the man himself. We all know of the billboards, the planes with banners and now the “Fire John Idzik” towels that the fans behind the billboards are giving away. John Idzik has failed in the eyes of the fan base; they have given up on this season and are demanding he be fired. Like myself, many fans are looking ahead to the off-season, free agency, and the draft. Most have been ready for this season to come to a merciful end for quite some time now.

I’m not a draft guru, but I thought I’d throw out some names and see where they land. I’ve been watching some film, some of the highlight reels, and I’ve begun to do my homework on the upcoming draft. In the process, I’ve begun to find some players I think the Jets might want to scout. I’m new to this, so please don’t string me up for them! It’s very early to be doing this, and as a “rookie” I’m sure I’ll miss on some of these names. ï¿½I’m sticking my neck out there on this one, but it will be interesting to kick some of these names around.

Jan 1, 2014; Tampa, Fl, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes offensive linesman

Brandon Scherff

(68) blocks against the LSU Tigers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

First round I’d propose an offensive lineman. Its been years since the line has had an influx of talent; it has been neglected and the deficiencies became crystal clear this season. I propose the Jets draft Brandon Scherff out of Iowa. Scherff is a big strong kid with above average athleticism. He’s listed at 6’5″/320. Brandon has been described as a road grader in the run game.

Scherff is a big man and he has the strength to go along with his size. The knock on him appears to be how well he handles “speed rushers”. No candidate is ideal of course, but he’s likely the most NFL ready tackle in the draft. If the Jets own a top five pick in the spring, they might be able to trade back a few spots and still come away with their prize.

Nov 29, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Michigan State Spartans cornerback

Trae Waynes

(15) defends on a pass intended for Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver

Chris Godwin

(12) in the second quarter at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

The Jets will likely try to bring in a free agent to solidify the corner position. It’s a year too late, but it needs to happen. In my opinion the Jets can’t afford to depend on Millner and McDougle’s return to solidify the secondary, they need insurance. The problem being this draft isn’t very deep at corner; there are prospects, but none truly jump out and excite you. Considering that fact, I’d like to see the Jets pursue Trae Waynes out of Michigan State. Waynes is projected by some early mocks as a first rounder, but I think the Jets might get lucky and find him sitting on the board in the early second.

Waynes is listed as 6’1″ 183 lbs. He played press man in coverage in college, but will need to add some bulk to do that on the outside. Another option for the Jets would be to slide him inside as a replacement for free agent and much maligned Kyle Wilson. I’ve watched this kid play, and he plays the outside quite well; he sticks with his receiver, has a good break on the ball, and angles receivers towards the boundary very well. If he were to fall into the Jets laps, I’d love to see what this kid can do in green and white.

Nov 28, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback

Brett Hundley

(17) scrambles away from pressure by the Stanford Cardinal during the second half of the game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

As I’ve said before, I think the Jets pass on the top two QB’s in this year’s draft. In my opinion, Marcus Mariota will be too expensive to get to, and I see Jameis Winston as a gamble considering all of the stupid off field issues. So in the third round I propose the Jets take a long hard look at Brett Hundley. I’m certain there will a lot of “nay sayers” on this one, but if the Jets were to let him warm the bench, I think he could be an exciting QB down the line. Hundley posses the size of an NFL QB, measuring out at 6’3/227. He also has the tools. He’s a pocket passer, has the arm to make any throw, and has shown confidence in taking his shots deep. He can be inconsistent at times, but with a quality QB coach at the pro level, I believe he could have a bright future at the next level. A veteran brought in to start for 2015, would give this young man some time to further develop his game.

Oct 11, 2014; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman

Jarvis Harrison

(51) during a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sport

I’m concerned about the offensive line and its depth. I think the Jets would be wise to revisit the position after grabbing their starting tackle in the first round. An option I’d like to see a bit more of is Jarvis Harrison out of Texas A&M. Harrison is another big guy; he measures in at 6’4″/330. Harrison wouldn’t be considered an immediate starter, he’s more of a project, but considering his size and athleticism the Jets might want to take a closer look.

What are the odds that the New York Jets will win the Super Bowl? Vegas has spoken, and the odds are pretty long.

Finally I’d like to throw a small school kid out there for the Jets to look at. A friend of mine turned me onto this kid, which honestly I had never heard of. My friend is a life time Jets fan myself, and knows his football, having played college ball at Ohio State many, many years ago. To hear him talk, this kid has the potential to be the next Jerry Rice! He does tend to exaggerate a bit when he gets excited! Seriously though, he’s been chewing my ear off about Lemar Durant for two years running now! Durant plays for Simon Fraser University and has quietly made a name for himself as a big playmaker.