Making the case for Jets to draft Evan Engram

Heading into the 2017 NFL Draft, the New York Jets need to add a premier tight end to their struggling offense. Evan Engram out of Mississippi is exactly what they need and much more.

In my most recent mock draft, the New York Jets finally address their issues at the tight end position in Round 3 of the 2017 NFL Draft. For years now, the Jets have gotten little to no production out of the position, relegating it to simply an extra layer of blocking protection for their quarterback and ground game. All that is about to change if everything falls into place as per my mock, with their first of two third-round picks, they land tight end Evan Engram out of Mississippi.

It’s no secret that new offensive coordinator John Morton has a knack at running a high-octane passing attack from his years with the New Orleans Saints. Of course, the Jets don’t have any quarterback near the caliber of Drew Brees but having a tight end that is a natural born playmaker will help out any quarterback under center.

A quality tight end adds another receiving option to the mix that would act as a safety net for any quarterback, especially a young one trying to prove they can get the job done. Engram brings some impressive stats to the table as in his collegiate career, he totaled 2,320 receiving yards, 162 receptions, and 15 touchdowns.

More from The Jet Press

• NY Jets should target TE Hunter Henry in free agency
• NY Jets: Why the team should target cornerback Shaquill Griffin
• NY Jets reportedly non-tendering linebacker Harvey Langi
• NY Jets: Why the team should not cut Jamison Crowder
• NY Jets should try to sign Kenny Golladay in free agency

You could combine the stats of all tight ends the Jets had in the past three years and get nowhere near the production Engram did as he made a name for himself on the college football scene. If the Jets decide to run an offense that is more around establishing the run, Engram also excels in blocking skills. Needless to say, he’s everything they need and much more.

As a quick learner and a player that is ready to push the envelope in the pros, he’d land in a perfect situation with the Jets. They need a player like him and he’d be another piece in the youth movement they’re trying to usher in for a brighter future. Even if the Jets get lucky and win five or more games this upcoming season, Engram should be able to beat out any of the current tight ends on the roster and earn valuable regular season starting experience.

Overall, Engram is a solid tight end that will only get better over the time. Once all the pieces come together for the Jets within the next two years or so, Engram will have experience under his belt and more than likely end up being a star offensive player on a team that doesn’t have many to brag about.