2021 NFL Draft: New York Jets find new franchise QB in NFL mock draft

2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, Pick 28

*This pick comes to the New York Jets via the Seattle Seahawks

With the first overall pick of this mock draft, the New York Jets added a new franchise quarterback to the mix. Getting Trevor Lawrence some help in the passing game is tempting, but the Jets have blatant needs on the defensive side of the ball that must be addressed as well. Here, they clean up the edge rusher position with the selection of Carlos Basham Jr.

Basham is never going to be the most dynamic or exciting player at the edge rusher position, but he is a tough and dependable player who is always going to do his job well. Basham is a smart player who identifies what the offense is doing quickly and adjusts his assignment accordingly. He is a strong player who sets the edge well and does a nice job of sniffing out the run and helping stop the play.

Basham is not overly explosive off of the edge, but he does get off of the ball quickly and is always working hard. He can win with speed around the edge at times, but is not afraid to adjust his path in order to create real pressure on the passer. Basham is a high motor player who is always going to do whatever he can to get to the quarterback.

The Jets have not had stability at the edge rusher position for a very long time and while Basham is unlikely to be a star edge rusher at the next level, he can help them solidify their situation up front. Snagging Basham here is not a sexy pick, but it is one that can help this team in a big way.