2015 NFL Mock Draft: New York Jets Stick with the Defensive Line

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Calvin Pryor (Louisville) poses for a photo after being selected as the number eighteen overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the New York Jets at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

With the Jets hierarchy moving into place, let’s take another look at the NFL draft that is upcoming. The Jets have many holes to fill on this roster, and Mike Maccagnan will get his chance in the spotlight to begin filling those holes at the NFL draft this spring.

This afternoon, we are going to look at two mock drafts. The first one is from ESPN draft guru, Mel Kiper Jr. Kiper is one of the most well-known figures in the NFL draft world, and he puts out a regular mock draft each season (insider subscription required), right up until the draft. Today we talk about his first pick for the Jets.

So, who does Mel Kiper have the Jets taking with the sixth pick in the NFL draft?

Next: The Mel Kiper Pick

Oct 12, 2013; Athens, GA, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Shane Ray (56) reacts after his team defeated the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium. Missouri defeated Georgia 41-26. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Shane Ray, DE, Missouri

The Jets could go in another direction in terms of defensive system now that former coach Rex Ryan isn’t running point on that side of the ball, but they need to add a pure pass-rusher to go with the significant talent they have elsewhere along the defensive line regardless of system. Ray was arguably the most productive pass-rusher in college football this season and is no one-trick pony — he really shows off an arsenal, a blend of technique, explosiveness and just relentlessness. The Jets have other needs, but if a quarterback isn’t available here, I like Ray as a fit. Repeat after me: You can never have too many pass-rushers.

I see Kiper’s point, as Shane Ray would be a choice to help the team right away. But, I still would rather see the Jets go with the offensive line here. Without an offensive line, we won’t move ahead. The Jets have depth on the defensive line, but the offensive line is starting to fall apart.

Next, we take a look at the most recent mock from another of our Fansided site, NFL Mocks. Let’s move along, and take a look at this interesting scenario, as the Jets actually trade back to number nine in this one.

Who do the Jets take?

Next: The NFL Mocks Pick

Dec 27, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive end Randy Gregory (4) looks on before the game against the USC Trojans in the 2014 Holiday Bowl at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska

After trading back, the Jets still get their guy with Gregory. Todd Bowles is expected to continue a defensive-minded scheme in New York, making Gregory a very nice fit. He fits well with what the Jets want to do — bring in explosive, athletic playmakers.

Schedule