New York Jets: Post-Senior Bowl 7-round 2021 NFL mock draft

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 23rd overall

It is going to be interesting to see how the New York Jets look to build their defense under the direction of new head coach Robert Saleh. They have plenty of interesting talent on the defensive side of the ball but many positions that still need to be addressed. More than likely, it will all start up front.

The Jets are led up front by defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, who took his game to the next level in 2020. Williams lining up as a three-tech and attacking the quarterback in Saleh’s defense is incredibly exciting but the Jets undoubtedly have a lot of work to do on the edge. Expect New York to address their edge-rusher situation in free agency but they could still attack the need in the draft.

In the first round of this 2021 NFL mock draft, the Jets find an opportunity to add an impact defensive player at this important position of need when they bring Azeez Ojulari into the fold. Ojulari took his game to the next level this season, showing an explosive first step and tremendous upfield burst. He explodes up the field with ease and shows impressive bend around the corner.

Ojulari always seems to be putting pressure on the passer and does a nice job of setting the edge against the run. He does lack some power that can give him issues at times, but for the most part, Ojulari can hold his own against bigger players and his speed will allow him to make an impact in most situations.

Simply put, the New York Jets have a major need at this important defensive position and Ojulari is an incredibly gifted edge rusher who has massive upside at the next level. He stands out as a strong target for the team in this range and an ideal selection in this 2021 NFL mock draft scenario.