2016 NFL Mock Draft: New York Jets select Jack Conklin

Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive tackle Jack Conklin (74) blocks Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) during the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Jets are preparing for what should hopefully be a very solid class brought into the franchise from the 2016 NFL Draft. One that has players ready to start next season while also adding pieces for a brighter future.

In this year’s draft, the Jets have six picks. Their sixth-round pick belongs to the Houston Texans due to their trade last offseason for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Either way, the best teams in the NFL know the only way to build dynasties is through the draft.

In last year’s draft, general manager Mike Maccagnan was the talk of the town for having an overall draft class worthy of high grades. Not only did he land the best player available in Leonard Williams, he added players that could be molded into future superstars over time like Devin Smith and Lorenzo Mauldin. He’s a keen draft mastermind and puts in a ton of work in scouting potential players that fit the vision he wants on the Jets in every way possible.

As of this moment, the Jets have some major needs to address on their offensive line, pass rush and one could even say quarterback as well. It won’t be easy, but Maccagnan has earned the trust of fans as he will undoubtedly make the best decisions for the Jets to continue being a contender for years to come.

Without further ado, here’s a full mock draft for the Jets in this year’s draft.

Next: Jets bolster offensive line in first round

Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive lineman Jack Conklin (11) participates in a drill during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Jets go quarterback in second round

Feb 27, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Memphis Tigers quarterback Paxton Lynch throws a pass during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Jets add linebacker in third round

Sep 12, 2015; College Park, MD, USA; Bowling Green Falcons quarterback Matt Johnson (11) runs to avoid Maryland Terrapins lineman Yannick Ngakoue (7) at Byrd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Next: Jets go defensive end in fourth round

Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Alex McCalister participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

He’s great against the run and used as an edge rusher, McCalister made a name for himself with the Florida Gators thanks to everything he brought to the table. In his college career, he totaled 49 tackles, 12.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

McCalister could be another situational pass rusher the Jets can use, especially against hybrid quarterbacks. He’s easily an impact player since he made the most of his opportunities when coaches put him to stop opposing teams from getting crucial first downs or even putting points on the board.

As a dark horse in this year’s draft, the Jets might have found a pass-rusher that could wreak havoc for years to come and also be an important part on special teams.

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Alex McCalister

Defensive End, Florida

Fully knowing they will use their third and fourth round picks on defensive players to add to their pass rush, the Jets add Alex McCalister to the mix. At 6’6 and 239 pounds, McCalister brings incredible burst speed to anything the Jets will need him to do as a utility kind of defender.

As a dark horse in this year’s draft, the Jets might have found a pass-rusher that could wreak havoc for years to come and also be an important part on special teams.

Next: Jets go wide receiver in fifth round

Nov 14, 2015; Fort Worth, TX, USA; TCU Horned Frogs wide receiver Kolby Listenbee (7) catches a pass for a first down against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first quarter at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Next: 7. Jets end their draft with another offensive lineman

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

At this point, the Jets have done a fantastic job so far. They added a premier offensive lineman ready to start, another quarterback to develop for the future, addressed their overall pass rush while also adding depth at wide receiver/special teams. To finish this year’s draft, they will select offensive guard Ted Karras out of Illinois.

At 6’4 and 307 pounds, Karras brings a whole lot to the table. He’s a four-year starter that is competitive and willing to learn everything that it takes to hone his craft to be the very best. He’s the perfect kind of player to draft in order to coach and train to the next level.

He excels at his run-blocking techniques but will need work with his body and being more fluid when the football is snapped. That’s something that will come over time as he makes the transition from the college scene to the pros.

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Overall, the Jets are in a very good position heading into next season with what should end up being a smart and strategic draft class that addresses most of their needs now and adding quality options for the future to develop.

The New York Jets are preparing for what should hopefully be a very solid class brought into the franchise from the 2016 NFL Draft. One that has players ready to start next season while also adding pieces for a brighter future.

Alex McCalister

Defensive End, Florida

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