3 first-round draft mistakes that continue to haunt the NY Jets

2.. Mekhi Becton, OT, NY Jets

Joe Douglas' first first-round pick is also one of his most costly draft misses. The Jets went into the 2020 NFL Draft with an obvious need at offensive tackle and a loaded class of talented offensive linemen to help fill that hole.

Rather than opt for the high-floor Tristan Wirfs, the Jets decided to swing big — figuratively and literally — with their selection of the 6-foot-7, 370-pound Becton.

The decision made some sense at the time, as Becton had obvious All-Pro upside and was seen as more of a natural left tackle. Wirfs was a right tackle prospect who many believed could kick inside to guard at the NFL level.

It was a fascinating debate at the time but one that seems rather straightforward now. Wirfs has made three Pro Bowls in four NFL seasons, has been named to multiple All-Pro teams, and helped lead his team to a Super Bowl victory.

As for Becton, a promising rookie campaign paved the way for multiple lost seasons due to injury before he returned and struggled mightily in 2023. Injuries have defined Becton's career in the same way that durability and accolades have defined Wirfs' career.

The Jets are expected to part ways with Becton this offseason and continue their search for an answer at left tackle. Many of the team's persistent offensive line issues to this day stem from this one monumental draft miss.

Douglas swung for the fences and struck out in embarrassing fashion. There's no way around it — this was a major blunder by the Jets.