9 players the NY Jets can target at pick No. 13 in the 2023 NFL Draft

2. NY Jets draft target: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

The Jets may have traded for former Baltimore Ravens safety Chuck Clark, but that doesn't mean they should be done addressing the position. The team needs a suitable replacement for Lamarcus Joyner, and neither Clark nor Whitehead could fill that role.

If the Jets turn to the 2023 NFL Draft in search of their Joyner replacement, Alabama's Brian Branch could make some sense as a first-round target.

Branch is widely considered to be the best option in a relatively weak safety class. The 2022 first-team All-American selection is a versatile safety prospect who thrives both in the slot and as a natural safety.

He may not be the best replacement for Joyner, as Branch is probably best near the line of scrimmage, but if the Jets are looking to stock up on as much versatile safety talent as they can, he could certainly be a target.

1. NY Jets draft target: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Paris Johnson Jr. is probably my favorite target for the Jets right now. A two-year starter at Ohio State, Johnson spent the 2021 season as the Buckeyes' right guard before moving to left tackle in 2022. He excelled at both positions.

Johnson is an outstanding athlete who, at 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, is technically sound in pass protection and has the agility to get out in space as a run blocker.

Some have concerns about Johnson's overall functional strength and his inconsistent anchor, but the 21-year-old projects as an instant day-one starter at left tackle with legitimate All-Pro upside.

To me, he's the best combination of Broderick Jones' ceiling and Peter Skoronski's floor. Johnson should be a top target for the Jets in this year's draft.