2021 NFL Mock Draft: Two teams trade up for QBs in 2021 NFL Mock Draft
2021 NFL Draft: 23rd overall
Alabama. 23. 30. Scouting Report. OT. Alex Leatherwood. player. Pick Analysis
The New York Jets are back up on the clock after selecting DeVonta Smith with their first first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. The trade back with the 49ers will give them extra capital down the line, and they can continue to build around Darnold. Here at 23, there are a plethora of options. Edge rusher is clearly a need, as is cornerback.
However, there aren’t many players worth considering at those spots for the Jets right now on the board.
Instead, let’s shore something else up. The offensive line got a big boost from Mekhi Becton in year one, and he looks like the left tackle of the future for New York. The question now is will the Jets build on that in the 2021 NFL Draft. Here, they do.
The Jets select Alabama tackle Alex Leatherwood here. Leatherwood has played tackle the last two seasons for Bama, but many scouts and analysts believe he’s better suited to play guard.
After his 2020 campaign, it’s hard to argue he couldn’t play tackle. He’s rock-solid in the run game and in pass protection and shows good balance and enough quickness against edge rushers. If the Jets aren’t comfortable with him at right tackle, he could always slide in at left guard.