New York Jets 7-Round 2023 Mock Draft: Protecting Aaron Rodgers
The New York Jets now have Aaron Rodgers in tow, and improving the offensive line to protect him should be a top priority. That and more in this seven round mock.
It’s finally done! Aaron Rodgers is headed to the New York Jets to give them their best signal-caller in a long time. It took a pick swap of 13 and 15, pick 42, a swap of 170 and 207 (in favor of the Jets) and a conditional 2024 2nd, but the Jets got it done to potentially open up a Super Bowl window with an ascending roster.
New York Jets Mock Draft: Protecting Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers is in. Now, the New York Jets have to get to work on priority number one: protecting an 39-year-old quarterback. The offensive line will be crucial for that reason and to get a run game led by Breece Hall up and rolling in 2023. They have just five picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, so a move back is possible to recoup some picks. Still, the focus is clear, and the Jets must answer the call. How do they make it happen? Let’s look at one possibility here in this 7-round Jets mock draft.
Round 1, Pick 15: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
The rumor going around after the 13-for-15 pick swap was that the New York Jets believe the tackle run will commence earlier than expected, and the top three will be off the board. It would stink if one of them made it to Green Bay and subsequently get picked there, but it’s an interesting gamble. That opens the door for the aforementioned trade back. Instead, though, let’s keep with the offensive line theme.
Darnell Wright comes ready-made as a pass protector. Other than some waist bending, which can get fixed, he excels on an island, with quick feet, comfort in a variety of sets, and the patience to prevent an early open up when rushers are pushing to win the outside track. He resets his hands well and is very tough to move off his spot, staying incredibly balanced through contact. Rodgers will want a tried and true pass protector who can help him buy time, so the fit works here.