NY Jets mock draft: An OL to target in every round of the 2023 NFL Draft
By Justin Fried
NY Jets Round 2 OL Target: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
Perhaps it's a bit optimistic to suggest the Jets could land Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz in the second round, but if he's on the board when the Jets select at pick 42 or 43, don't expect the Jets to hesitate.
Schmitz is widely considered to be the best center in this year's class. A three-year starter, Schmitz blends an NFL-ready skill set, an experienced collegiate career, and ample athleticism.
The Jets have been doing their homework on Schmitz in the pre-draft process. They met with him at the Senior Bowl, the NFL Combine, and his Minnesota pro day and hosted him on an official top-30 visit.
The team's interest in Schmitz is evident, and he may very well be their preferred center option for 2023. If he's on the board in the second round, I find it hard to believe the Jets will pass on the opportunity to select him.
NY Jets Round 3 OL Target: Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State
If the Jets are unable to land Schmitz, there are a few other centers they could target. One such individual is Ohio State's Luke Wypler, another projected Day 2 pick in this year's draft.
A native of New Jersey, Wypler grew up a massive Jets fan. He named his dog after Mark Sanchez and wore the jersey number of his idol and fellow Ohio State alumnus, Nick Mangold, in high school.
Wypler was a two-year starter at Ohio State, earning third-team All-Big Ten honors in his final collegiate season. Like Schmitz, Wypler is a strong athlete who projects best in a zone-blocking scheme where he can best utilize his impressive athleticism.
The Jets selected a local childhood Jets fan in last year's draft. Perhaps they do the same again this year.