NY Jets ‘think really highly’ of Oklahoma center Creed Humphrey

The NY Jets will undoubtedly look to upgrade their offensive line in the 2021 NFL Draft, especially after a quiet free agency period. And one player that’s reportedly high on their list is Oklahoma center Creed Humphrey.

It was reported on Tuesday by uSTADIUM that the Jets “think really highly” of Humphrey and that he could be in play for either the 23rd or 34th overall pick.

They also confirmed a previous report that suggested that the Jets were high on Oklahoma State offensive tackle/guard Teven Jenkins as well. Although there’s a decent chance that Jenkins is off the board by the time the Jets are on the clock at 23.

As for Humphrey, however, the expectation is that he’ll still be available when the Jets make their second pick of the draft.

The NY Jets could target Creed Humphrey early in the draft

Humphrey is considered to be one of the best interior offensive line prospects in this year’s class, and is near-unanimously viewed as the best overall center.

A three-year starter at Oklahoma, Humphrey has anchored one of the best offensive lines in college football since 2018 and was named Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in each of the last two seasons.

Humphrey was a standout wrestler growing up and his wrestling background is evident in his playstyle. The 22-year-old has outstanding hand technique and uses his body thickness to gain leverage against opposing defensive linemen.

A two-year team captain, Humphrey has been widely praised for his leadership abilities as well as his intelligence on and off the field. He’s been called a natural-born leader and was also a frequent star in the weight room.

Overall, Humphrey is a technician. His combination of intangibles, low center of gravity, and raw power give him Pro-Bowl upside with the ability to start on an NFL offensive line from day one.

He tested above-average at his pro day, but he does look a little stiff on tape. Humphrey might be better suited in a power-blocking scheme where he wouldn’t be asked to pull as much.

Still, he’s mobile enough to be a scheme-versatile prospect and projects well as a guard in the NFL despite no collegiate experience at the position.

The Jets retained all five starting offensive through free agency, but that’s likely to change in the draft. While the team is evidently high on Connor McGovern at center, they could look to upgrade over both Alex Lewis and Greg Van Roten at guard.

It’s unclear if the Jets would look to play Humphrey at guard or shift McGovern over given his experience at the position. Either way, Humphrey would be an excellent addition early in the draft.

The Jets are looking for an interior upgrade, and Creed Humphrey would certainly provide them with that.