NY Jets showing a lot of interest in Baylor LB Terrel Bernard

The NY Jets are showing some interest in the upcoming linebacker class, and one player who they've done their homework on is Baylor linebacker Terrel Bernard.

The Jets are one of a few teams that Bernard has spoken to "the most so far," per source. Bernard is widely considered to be a Day 2 or 3 prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft and he fits the profile of the type of linebacker the Jets are looking for.

The linebacker position remains one of the most underrated needs currently on the Jets' roster heading into the draft, especially after failing to address it in free agency.

Bernard makes plenty of sense as a potential early Day 3 target who could step in and contribute early in his career. And everything about his game suits what the Jets want from their linebackers.

Terrel Bernard would be a great fit for the NY Jets

At barely 6-foot-1, 224 pounds, Bernard lacks ideal size for the linebacker position, but the Jets have actually shown a propensity for smaller linebackers in the past.

What he lacks in size he more than makes up for with sideline-to-sideline speed, a hot motor, and highly-touted leadership qualities. Baylor head coach Dave Aranda referred to Bernard as the "heart, soul, and character" of his team, and it's easy to see why when watching the tape.

Bernard is always around the ball whether in pass coverage or in run defense. A three-year starter, Bernard developed into one of the leaders of that Baylor team and was named a team captain for his senior season.

The 22-year-old is a two-time second-team All-Big 12 selection and was named first-team All-Big 12 this past year after leading his team with 103 tackles and racking up a whopping 7.5 sacks despite playing off-ball linebacker.

Bernard is a speedy, undersized, high-character linebacker prospect who fits the Jets' defensive scheme to a tee. It's no surprise to learn that they're as interested as they are.

Don't be surprised if the Jets target him in the middle rounds of this year's draft.