NY Jets fix their defense in 7-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft

Round 4, 111th Overall, NY Jets: Jahleel Billingsley, TE, Alabama

After going defense with the first three picks, the Jets make it three straight offensive picks finally addressing tight end here in the fourth round. Again, this is another instance where free agency matters.

If the Jets don't add a starting tight end in free agency, the position becomes a much greater need in the draft. Operating under the assumption they might, we added Alabama's Jahleel Billingsley here on Day 3.

At 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Billingsley is more of an oversized wide receiver than he is a true in-line tight end. He's cut from the same cloth as a player like Evan Engram with excellent athleticism and receiving upside.

The Jets need to add more targets for Zach Wilson and Billingsley could give them the high-upside pass-catching tight end they've been searching for for over a decade.

Round 4, 115th Overall, NY Jets: Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor

Few players have done more to improve their stock over the course of this season than Baylor's Jalen Pitre. Pitre wasn't on most scouts' radars heading into the season, but after a standout campaign that saw him named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and a Thorpe Award finalist, he's made a name for himself.

At 6-foot, 197 pounds, Pitre is a versatile defensive back who can play anywhere from single-high safety to box safety to slot defender. He's an instinctive defender who sniffs out screens and is sticky in man coverage.

The Jets will likely be looking for safety help with Marcus Maye set to depart in free agency and Pitre gives the team someone who can compete for a starting job from day one.