Mike Francesa offers NSFW warning to NY Jets about perfect draft target

The NY Jets could be eyeing one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft, and Notre Dame's Joe Alt figures to be near the top of their list of targets. That is, of course, if they even have the opportunity.

Alt is widely seen as the consensus No. 1 offensive tackle prospect in this draft class, and barring a draft-day surprise or a trade-up, many don't believe the Jets will have the chance to draft him.

But if they do, Alt would be a home-run pick for the Jets. Count the infamous Mike Francesa among those who agree with that notion, although the so-called "Sports Pope" might've taken things to the extreme with his declaration.

Speaking on his BetRivers podcast earlier this week, Francesa made it clear that he wants the Jets to draft Alt later this month. What if they don't? Well, Francesa has a...bold opinion

"[Alt]'s probably gonna be there for the Jets. If the Jets get the good fortune of Alt being there at 10, if they don’t take him, they should be shot."

- Mike Francesa

Mike Francesa believes the NY Jets 'should be shot' if they pass on Joe Alt

Francesa has never been one to hold back or mince words, and that much is very clear here. While his declaration might be a little extreme, it's safe to say many Jets fans wouldn't be very happy if their favorite team did pass on Alt.

That said, Francesa's assertion that he's "probably going to be there" for the Jets isn't very accurate. Alt is widely seen as a top-10 pick in this year's draft with almost every mock draft projecting him to be off the board before the Jets pick at No. 10 overall.

The overwhelming consensus is that Alt will be selected in the top seven picks, likely by either the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 5 or the Tennessee Titans at No. 7.

Of course, anything can happen on draft day. We've seen countless prospects over the years suffer unexpected falls during the draft, but it's definitely misleading to claim the Jets will "probably" be able to draft Alt in the first round.

He might be worth trading up for, though. A three-year starting left tackle at Notre Dame, Alt was named a Unanimous All-American in 2023 and was a finalist for the Outland Trophy, given to the nation's top offensive lineman/interior defensive lineman.

At 6-foot-8, 322 pounds, Alt blends outstanding size with excellent athleticism and an NFL-ready skill set. The Jets don't necessarily need another offensive lineman, but they should be looking for an insurance policy/succession plan behind the aging Tyron Smith. Alt could be that guy.

Francesa's specific words may be a little much, but the overall sentiment is fair. The Jets should not pass on Joe Alt if they have the opportunity to draft him later this month.