NY Jets new favorites to draft Brock Bowers after Mike Williams signing

The NY Jets have given themselves ample flexibility heading into the 2024 NFL Draft to target essentially any player at any position. Could that include highly-touted Georgia tight end Brock Bowers?

The latest betting odds seem to suggest so. ESPN's Rich Cimini reported on Tuesday that the Jets are now the new betting favorites to draft Bowers next month. Their odds moved up from +125 to +110 following the Mike Williams signing.

Williams gives the Jets a talented WR2 to pair with Garrett Wilson, making wide receiver less of a pressing need for the Jets entering the draft. A similar situation has developed with the Jets' other primary position of need, offensive tackle.

The additions of Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses have solidified a position that was a major question mark for the Jets just a week ago. Now, the Jets don't need to draft an offensive tackle in the first round — much like they don't need to draft a wide receiver.

Bowers is very much in the conversation.

Brock Bowers makes a ton of sense as a NY Jets draft target

Bowers is widely seen as not only the best tight end prospect in this year's draft class but as one of the best tight end prospects in recent memory. Most have him as a likely top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Given how many talented wide receiver and offensive tackle prospects — not to mention quarterbacks — are expected to be taken in the top 10, however, there's a chance Bowers slides to the Jets.

If that happens, don't be surprised if the Jets strongly consider taking him, especially after solidifying both wide receiver and offensive tackle.

Bowers' college accolades are extensive. The 21-year-old is a three-time first-team All-SEC selection, a 2023 Unanimous All-American, and a two-time John Mackey Award winner, given to the nation's best tight end.

At 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, Bowers is an elite route runner with above-average physical traits and outstanding hands. His college production speaks for itself, and many believe Bowers will be a top-five tight end in the NFL before long.

The Jets don't necessarily need a tight end, but they can certainly use another offensive playmaker, even after signing Williams. That's exactly what Bowers could be — a playmaker.

The Jets could lean into 12 personnel with Bowers and Tyler Conklin on the field together or even shift Bowers to the slot as a wide receiver. There are endless ways to utilize Bowers in the Jets' offense even with Conklin in the picture.

The Jets have put themselves in a position where they won't be forced to draft for need. If there's an offensive tackle or wide receiver available at pick No. 10 that the Jets like, they can absolutely still go that route.

Bowers is just another logical target for the draft-flexible Jets. Vegas sure seems to believe there's a strong possibility it happens.