3 small-school prospects the NY Jets could target in the 2022 NFL Draft

NY Jets, Pierre Strong Jr.
NY Jets, Pierre Strong Jr. / Hannah Foslien/GettyImages
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NY Jets, Markquese Bell / Don Juan Moore/GettyImages

1. Markquese Bell, safety, Florida A&M

Markquese Bell is a local product who was a star wide receiver and defensive back for Bridgeton High School in Bridgeton, New Jersey. He was a two-time, second-team All-State selection and the 2015 South Jersey Times Offensive Player of the Year.

Prior to attending Florida A&M, Bell played one season for Coffeyville Community College. He recorded 52 tackles and blocked two kicks in eight games.

Bell enrolled at FAMU in 2019 and became an immediate star. He received first-team All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference honors by registering 61 tackles, five interceptions, nine pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.

In 2021, Bell took his game to an even higher level recording a team-high 95 tackles, five forced fumbles, and garnering first-team All-Conference recognition for his performance.

At 6 foot-3 and 205 pounds, Bell possesses the size and exceptional length needed to play safety at the NFL level. There is still room for him to add additional muscle to his long frame.

Bell is very athletic and is a strong and aggressive tackler that doesn't shy away from contact. He has good field awareness and does a very good job of reading the eyes of the quarterback. He has the athletic ability to contribute immediately on special teams while further developing his skills at the NFL level.

Markquese Bell is a versatile player who is equally proficient in defending both the run and the pass. He is currently projected as a mid to late Day 3 selection.

Bell could be an option for the Jets as a developmental player, especially if the safety position is not addressed in the earlier rounds of the draft.