Garrett Wilson points to Ohio State star as preferred Jets draft pick

Wide receiver outside of Garrett Wilson has been a years-long issue for the New York Jets, and if the team wants any quarterback to succeed, building a deeper group of pass catchers has to be a priority.

Mason Taylor showed promise at tight end in his rookie season, but it’s tough to fully evaluate him given the struggles of Justin Fields and Brady Cook. Adonai Mitchell also flashed, but he can’t be relied on yet as a true No. 2 option behind Wilson.

Free agency did not bring the Jets much help at pass catcher, so the upcoming NFL Draft will be their best opportunity to add targets for Geno Smith and round out an offense that will also feature Breece Hall and a solid, young offensive line.

New York has a chance to do that early with picks two and 16 in the first round. While the former might be a bit high to take a wide receiver in this class, there are options later on, including another Ohio State product in Carnell Tate, who already has Wilson’s attention.

Jets face tough road to land Carnell Tate

Speaking with Whistle Sports, Wilson said he hopes the Jets can find a way to land Tate. Pairing the two would give the team a dynamic Buckeye duo and potentially its best receiving corps since the AFC Championship runs in 2010 and 2011.

The 6-foot-2 standout is arguably one of the top receivers in this class, making him an obvious target with the Jets’ draft capital. That said, he will also draw interest from other teams, including the New Orleans Saints at No. 8 and the Miami Dolphins at No. 11, which could make it difficult for him to fall to No. 16.

The Jets do have the flexibility to move up. With picks No. 33, No. 44, and No. 103, they have the assets to trade up from No. 16, though it could require jumping as high as No. 7 with the Washington Commanders to get it done.

Another option would be for Darren Mougey to trade down from second overall, target Tate later in the top 10, and pick up additional assets to address multiple needs across the roster, which remains in need of cornerstone pieces on the opposite side of the ball.

If the Jets have their sights set on Tate, it’s not out of the question. Wide receiver is a clear need, but so is rebuilding a defense that struggled mightily. With competition for Tate likely, it could be an uphill climb to land him, and there may be more realistic options later in the draft.