New York Jets: Top 3 players in Supplemental Draft 2015

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell addresses the crowd in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

No its not the NFL Draft time of year, but just around the corner at a date yet to be determined in July, will be time for the NFL Supplemental Draft. The Jets lone selection that I could find in the supplemental draft is when they chose Syracuse wide receiver Rob Moore in the first round of the 1990 event. Moore went on to play four years with the Jets (1990 – 1994) in what turned out to be an 11 year career (1990 – 2001).

This year’s version already has several entries and from recent activity, that number may rise. Currently to be available are offensive tackle Isiah Battle (Clemson), wide receiver Adrian Wilkins (North Carolina Central) and defensive end Darrius Caldwell (West Georgia).

While historically the Jets have very little activity in the July event, I thought since things are slow awaiting camp, it would be worth a look to see who stands out from the pack. Here is a look at the top 3 players in this year’s Supplemental Draft.

Next: 3. Isiah Battle

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

3. Isiah Battle

Isiah Battle might hold some interest to general manager Mike Maccagnan and company. The Jets depth at tackle is not exactly in the elite talent category and Battle’s entry into this draft might prove tempting. Battle measures out at 6’7″/290 pounds, a Brooklyn native and has sited family reasons as his decision to bypass his senior year.

With an aging offensive line the Jets might be looking for a promising project at a relatively low cost investment. Battle may provide exactly that if the Jets play their cards right. Playing for Clemson, Battle has shown consistent development, playing significant roles for the Tigers in their 2012, 2013 and 2014 bowl victories over top 25 ranked teams.

Battle is a bit of a project, especially coming out at this point in the season. It’s always hard to judge the interest a player may draw in this version of the draft, but if Battle can be had for a fourth or fifth rounder, he certainly is going to be tempting.

Next: 2. Adrian Wilkins

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

2. Adrian Wilkins

Adraian Wilkins played his college football at North Carolina Central University as a wide receiver and kick returner. Wilkins is on the small side for an NFL receiver standing at 5’8″ and weighing 175 pounds. Bypassing his senior year to enter the supplemental draft, Wilkins averaged 20.6 yards per kick return last season and hauled in 50 catches for 540 yards. Wilkins is a speedster with three kickoff returns and 2 punts return for touchdowns.

It’s hard to imagine the Jets having much interest in Wilkins, as they have a talented group of wide receivers on this year’s roster. One thing I think we’ve learned about Maccagnan though is he always seems to be looking for talent.

If he feels the Jets can afford a spot strictly for a returner, Wilkins will be a very cheap option potentially.

Next: 1. Darrius Caldwell

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

1. Darrius Caldwell

Darrius Caldwell enters this year’s supplemental draft as a 6’6″/245 pound defensive end. Caldwell played for West Georgia last year and led the South Gulf Conference in sacks with 12 last season and he added 18.5 tackles for a loss as well. He is not going to be mistaken for a premier edge rusher at the NFL level by any means, but there is potential there.

The Jets could still have an interest in adding an edge rusher in the future as it’s hard to imagine they would forgo a draft pick to choose Caldwell. Caldwell has struggled academically, playing his first two years at the junior college level before transferring to West Georgia.

Reportedly, his difficulties meeting the NCAA’s academics eligibility standards have led to Caldwell applying for this draft. Jets need smart football players, so I see little chance they even consider him a project.

Next: Final Thoughts

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a helmet and NFL shield logo before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Final Thoughts

The Supplemental Draft works a bit different then the NFL Draft. All players will be eligible to be drafted by any team in any round. The team choosing a player forgoes the corresponding draft pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. If an eligible player is not chosen in the draft by any team, that player becomes a free agent, eligible to be signed by any team.

While its far from a highlight on the NFL calendar, the supplemental draft is always worth a peek. Caldwell is most likely to draw attention from the Jets, but how much value they would put on him is up to speculation. Some notable players taken in the supplemental draft’s history are Bernie Kosar, Cris Carter, Ahmad Brooks, and Jamal Williams.

Thanks for joining me on a short trip through this year’s supplemental draft. Do you see the Jets having an interest in one of these players? Which one do you think might be worth a closer look? We here at The Jet Press value your opinion so please, leave us a comment, and Let’s Talk Jet Football!!

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