New York Jets Draft 2015: Prospects to Watch, Day One

Feb 18, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan speaks to the media during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

It’s draft day morning, Jets fans. The draft board is set. Mike Maccagnan and company are ready to take center stage and set the direction of the franchise. It’s about time to find out who will be the next stars of the New York Jets. Well, we hope.

So, how is it going to play out tonight? I gave you my first round prediction yesterday. This morning, we are going to expand that reach a little bit.

Here I am going to bring you the prospects you are most likely to see the Jets choose tonight. This is assuming the Jets stay at number six, as I have told you guys before, I don’t make predictions based on trades. I don’t claim to have an idea of what offers might be coming in, so I won’t make predictions based on hypothetical trades.

Here are the guys that Jets fans should look for tonight.

Next: Vic Beasley

Nov 15, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive end

Vic Beasley

(3) after a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the fourth quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Georgia Tech defeated Clemson 28-6. Mandatory Credit:

Brett Davis

-USA TODAY Sports

We start with the pick that I believe the Jets WILL make, Vic Beasley. This is very much a position of need for the Jets, and we all know it. I don’t see Dante Fowler making it all the way to number six. But Beasley has an excellent chance of being available at six, thanks to a front loaded draft, talent-wise.

Yes, Mike Maccagnan talked a great deal about drafting the best player available, but they all say that in the beginning. When it comes to being on the clock, if all things are equal, the Jets will take a hard look at edge pass rusher as a need to make the defense dominant.

I believe that in the end Beasley will be the guy. However, here are a few others to keep in mind.

Next: Kevin White

Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers wide receiver

Kevin White

catches a pass during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Imagine adding another receiver to this already improved Jets depth chart at the position. Geno Smith is going to be here, and get his fair shot, whether anyone reading this post likes it or not. Just accept it. So, what do you do to put the quarterback in the best position to succeed? You give him a wide variety of weapons to work with.

If Kevin White is available at number six, his value may just be too high for the Jets to pass up. He got everyone’s attention with 109 receptions for over 1,400 receiving yards last season at West Virginia, and turned the NFL’s heads 360 degrees with his performance at the combine.

White is widely considered the top available receiver, and if the Jets have a chance, they may not pass it up.

Next: Bud Dupree

Nov 29, 2014; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals wide receiver

Kai De La Cruz

(12) catches a pass under the pressure of Kentucky Wildcats defensive end

Alvin Dupree

(2) during the second half at Papa John

Bud Dupree is a player that seems to be creeping up the radar of NFL draft boards, and has been connected with the Jets by some. Dupree would also fit the bill as an edge pass rusher, though I personally belive that number six would be a bit high.

With 23.5 sacks over four years, Dupree certainly put up consistent sack numbers, but he is a bit raw in his technique, so he wouldn’t be my choice for the Jets at number six. But, some feel the Jets may take a shot on him, so be on the lookout for his name tonight.

Next: Brandon Scherff

Jan 2, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes offensive lineman

Brandon Scherff

(68) gets ready to block Tennessee Volunteers linebacker

Chris Weatherd

(42) in the first quarter of the 2015 TaxSlayer Bowl at EverBank Field. The Tennessee Volunteers beat the Iowa Hawkeyes 45-28. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

Finally, the Jets may still go offensive line with this spot, and if they do, look for it to be Brandon Scherff. I would have called La’el Collins’ name here, but with his current situation, teams will be scared off, and that will include the New York Jets.

The Jets do need help on the offensive line, and Scherff would provide that immediate upgrade. It won’t be a pick that many like, but it would be a good move, and a safe one. The Jets still might go this route.

Enjoy the draft tonight. Stay tuned tonight for analysis of the pick.

Next: Mock Draft Version Six

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