Tip For Marcus Mariota Admirers: Get Ahead Of The Jets

Sep 20, 2014; Pullman, WA, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) drops back for a pass against the Washington State Cougars during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Stop and say for a second that Jameis Winston going to Tampa Bay at #1 is an absolute done deal.  People can lock that into place.  This situation would undoubtedly create an interesting scenario regarding Marcus Mariota.

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The reigning Heisman winner is universally considered the only other quarterback on the board worthy of going in the top-10 given his history at Oregon and what his talent showed at the Scouting Combine.  The problem is several teams within striking distance of that area need a quarterback.  So the question becomes — how high do they have to go?

Well, rest assured that if the Tennessee Titans want him, the game is over since they hold the #2 pick.  However, if they decide to go with the best defensive prospect as many expect then things become a little clearer.  Jacksonville and Oakland at #3 and #4 both took quarterbacks last year so they aren’t threats.  Washington at #5 has Robert Griffin III who they still wish to develop.

Everything seems to gravitate towards the New York Jets at #6.

Any team that wants Mariota will have to find a way past them.  Here is why.

First Scenario:  The Jets Want Him To Replace Geno Smith

By far the simplest idea is New York is about done with the Geno Smith experiment.  After two seasons of either bad or inconsistent play, the former 2nd round pick has all but proven he doesn’t have what it takes to start in the pros.  Taking Mariota would be the obvious route for putting that misfire to bed.

Second Scenario:  They Want To Trade Him To Philadelphia

The rumor that is gaining more and more traction is every day is that the Jets plan to shop their #6 pick to the Philadelphia Eagles.  Their head coach Chip Kelly has tried to find solutions at quarterback without success.  Marcus Mariota, whom he recruited to Oregon, has the exact skill-set and knowledge made to run his up-tempo offense at the highest level.

In exchange for jumping from #20, the Jets would receive a package consisting of multiple future 1st round picks, one or two 2nd round picks and quarterback in Nick Foles who would give New York their exit door from Geno Smith.  The Eagles get their quarterback, the Jets get their meal ticket to rebuilding their roster quickly.

The memo to the rest of the field is clear.  If Mariota is on the wish list, jumping above the #6 slot is going to be what it takes.