New York Jets 2020 NFL Draft: 7-round mock draft

The Jets have plenty of needs across both sides of the ball, but nothing stands out more than their need at offensive tackle. Last year’s third-round pick Chuma Edoga has the talent to be a strong long-term asset at offensive tackle, but besides him, all the Jets really have at the position are underperforming veterans. Simply put, the New York Jets need to get younger and better across their offensive tackle situation.

In this 2020 NFL draft scenario, the Jets get a little lucky, as Iowa offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs falls to them at number nine. Wirfs and Georgia’s Andrew Thomas stand out as the top offensive tackles in the 2020 NFL draft class and both could easily be gone before the ninth pick. That being said, Wirfs slides just a bit here, making him an obvious selection at nine for the Jets.

Wirfs is an extremely talented offensive lineman who shows an impressive combination of athleticism and power. He is quick off of the ball and extremely powerful at the point of attack. Wirfs can maul as a run blocker and protect against speed rushers on the edge. His raw talent and ability give him massive upside at the next level.

Wirfs has primarily played right tackle at Iowa, but filled in at left tackle earlier this season due to an injury to teammate Alaric Jackson. While on the left side, Wirfs was just as dominant as he is on the right. It doesn’t matter whether you need a right or left tackle, Wirfs can handle either side and play the position at an extremely high level.

In this scenario, I imagine that the New York Jets would place Wirfs at left tackle and hope to have him protecting Darnold’s blindside for many years to come. Regardless of which side he ends up playing, Wirfs would be a big-time upgrade for the New York Jets up front.