Jets suggested to use Day 2 draft pick on Sauce Gardner replacement

Although there is no truly replacing All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner, ESPN’s Field Yates has an idea on how the New York Jets can at least try to fill that void in the secondary.

In a three-round mock draft published on Thursday, Yates suggested that the Jets use the No. 44 pick, their fourth overall and second Day 2 pick, on San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson.

The 6-foot, 193-pound Johnson ran a 4.40 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine and has repeatedly earned praise for his overall athleticism.

Johnson is fresh off a stellar senior season, one where he earned Mountain West Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors after catching four interceptions — returning two for touchdowns — and recording a career-high three tackles for a loss.

The foursome of Yates, Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, and Jordan Reid mocked Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese (No. 2), Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (No. 16), and Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson (No. 33) to the Jets with their first three picks.

Could Jets target San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson?

First off: No, this Chris Johnson is not related to former Titans All-Pro running back Chris Johnson, who actually suited up for the Jets in 2014. The less said about that 2014 season, the better, and we’re sure that new Jets quarterback Geno Smith would certainly agree.

As for this Johnson, the best way to describe him is with a term Jets fans should love: ballhawk. Johnson snagged six interceptions and forced five fumbles throughout his time at San Diego State.

Mix that with his speed, and you have a cornerback who could be an excellent addition to a Jets defense desperately seeking dynamic playmakers in the secondary.

Johnson also brought strength to the Combine, with him and Clemson standout Avieon Terrell leading all cornerbacks with 17 bench reps.

If drafted, Johnson could immediately compete with Jarvis Brownlee Jr. for cornerback snaps. Brandon Stephens is likely assured of a starting role after a strong second half last year, with him frequently faring well analytically.

Stephens’ 67.0 Pro Football Focus grade finished 38th of 114 qualified cornerbacks leaguewide, and he may have found his stride under head coach Aaron Glenn, himself a former defensive back.

As of publication, there are no credible reports suggesting that Johnson and the Jets plan to meet for a top-30 visit. However, he is certainly worth looking into, especially if he is still available when the Jets are back on the board at No. 44.