NY Jets draft ideal developmental swing tackle in Max Mitchell

The NY Jets went into the 2022 NFL Draft looking to bolster their offensive tackle depth, and they did just that at the top of the fourth round with their selection of Louisiana-Lafayette tackle Max Mitchell.

Despite rumors connecting the Jets to NC State offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu early in the draft, the Jets opted to pass on adding the talented offensive lineman in favor of Cincinnati cornerback Sauce Gardner.

It was clear that the Jets wanted to add an offensive tackle, but they ended up waiting until Day 3 to do so. Mitchell is an excellent depth piece and someone who can develop into an ideal swing tackle.

At 6-foot-6, 302 pounds, Mitchell is a good athlete who has experience playing both left and right tackle. He's exactly what the Jets were looking for at this stage of the draft.

Max Mitchell is an important depth addition for the NY Jets

A former two-star recruit, Mitchell was a three-year starter at Louisiana logging starts at left tackle, right tackle, and even a game at left guard. He spent the majority of his career at right tackle starting 29 of 37 games on the right side of the offensive line.

The 22-year-old was named second-team All-Sun Belt in 2020 and first-team All-Sun Belt the following year as he emerged as one of the best small-school offensive linemen in the country.

Mitchell underwhelmed at his pro day, but his athleticism shines through when watching his tape. He's an agile mover who improved every year at Louisiana and someone who has experience playing both tackle spots.

That's exactly the type of player the Jets were targeting. Mitchell can step in and compete for the top swing tackle role as a rookie providing much-needed depth behind George Fant and Mekhi Becton.

Given that the only other tackles on the roster before the pick were Conor McDermott and Chuma Edoga, it's clear that this was a position of need for the Jets.

The Jets continue to build around Zach Wilson with Max Mitchell their latest addition.