A New York Jets Complete 2014 NFL Mock Draft
By Erik Lambert
Oct 13, 2012; Seattle, WA, USA; Southern California Trojans linebacker Dion Bailey (18) reacts after intercepting a pass in the first quarter against the Washington Huskies at CenturyLink Field. USC defeated Washington, 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports
The task ahead is quite clear for the New York Jets as they look to bolster their offense. How does the 2014 NFL mock draft play out for them?
Round 1 – Marqise Lee – WR – USC
One way or another, the Jets can’t do anything with their offense until they add some weapons to the passing game. Prior to a knee injury that hampered his season Marqise Lee was considered the best in the 2014 class thanks to his speed, acceleration and agility that makes him a constant threat to score.
Round 2 – Gabe Jackson – OG – Mississippi State
New York had its greatest success in recent years when they were stacked at guard. Rex Ryan will want to pound the football in the running game and need interior blockers to open holes. Gabe Jackson is a mammoth mauler out of MississippiState. He’s not only powerful but very aggressive and yet still retains the footwork and hands for pass protection.
Round 3 (from TB) – Troy Niklas – TE – Notre Dame
Tight end is in every bit in need of an upgrade for the New York Jets offense as receiver. Still somewhat of a wild card in the 2014 NFL mock draft landscape, Troy Niklas is nonetheless another intriguing athlete coming out of Notre Dame who boasts the size, speed and hands to become a prominent pass target.
Round 3 – Dion Bailey – FS – USC
Not everything went right for the Trojans in 2013 but as usual they continue to churn out quality defensive talent. Dion Bailey is not the biggest safety on the board but it shows up constantly on tape just how good his instincts, fluidity and hands are to make big plays for his team.
Round 4 – David Fales – QB – San Jose State
Geno Smith didn’t exactly endear himself to Jets fans in 2013, instead choosing to ride a stout defense and running game to an 8-8 record. While other needs are more pressing, it won’t be a surprise if the Jets bring in some competition. David Fales is a smart, decisive and highly accurate passer out of San JoseState who is born and bread to run the West Coast offense.
Round 5 – Ronald Powell – OLB – Florida
The outside linebackers weren’t terrible for New York last season but they still could use more help in the pass rush. Ronald Powell is a high risk/high reward player, which is why he’s dropped to the 5th round. His ability to attack the quarterback is outstanding but suffering two injuries to the same ACL in his knee will merit caution.
Round 6 – Kevin Norwood – WR – Alabama
Where Lee is the big-play threat the Jets want, Kevin Norwood can become that money-down receiver they’ll want when they need a tough catch. Playing for Alabama didn’t get him noticed much but Norwood has a solidly built 6’2″ frame with good hands, a strong lower body and polished technique.
Round 7 – Lavelle Westbrooks – CB – Georgia Southern
Georgia Southern has developed a reputation for putting out solid defensive prospects and among their most physically gifted is cornerback Lavelle Westbrooks. With a 6’0″ he has the height and game tape shows the speed and athleticism is there as well. If Rex Ryan can sand off the rough edges to his mechanics he could become quite a find.