A 2-5 start for the New York Jets has many fans already thinking about April and how general manager Joe Douglas can build the roster. Losers of four straight, questions remain in abundance for a franchise that was expected to challenge for an AFC East title in 2024.
Here is an early look at where the Jets could go come April.
Round 1 (No. 10 overall): Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
One of the most dynamic defenders in the class, Abdul Carter's athleticism and alignment versatility would present the Jets with an electric hybrid piece. A former off-ball LB making the transition to edge this fall, Carter has as lofty a performance ceiling as any rookie in the class.
While the Jets are welcoming Haason Reddick back with open arms, there remains a lack of depth behind Quinnen Williams and Will McDonald IV. Considering the unknown that is the level of performance when Jermaine Johnson returns (Achilles), the selection of Carter would boost the front seven immediately.
Round 2 (No. 41 overall): Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Aaron Rodgers isn’t the future, and neither is Tyrod Taylor. Is it Jordan Travis? I don’t think so. Enter Drew Allar, a former five-star recruit who touts the bells and whistles to lead an NFL offense.
Consistent production against elite competition has been a knock on Allar since he was named the starter a few years ago, but he’s got the makeup, arm talent, and projectability that has, and will continue to intrigue NFL teams. The Jets need young talent at the position, and I like the value here on day two with a QB that has an immense ceiling if all comes to fruition.
Round 3 (No. 95 overall): Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
Elic Ayomanor is a powerful yet elusive wideout with many of the traits that showcase a future offensive weapon at the next level. He’s an excellent possession receiver in the shallow areas who is quick to gain separation on slants and in-breakers (Colorado in 2023), which often presents him the chance to extend the play after the catch. He also can stretch teams vertically and overpower smaller defenders in low red zone opportunities. A lack of talent under center has limited his impact this fall, but Ayomanor projects as a top-three wideout in an NFL attack.
Round 4 (No. 108 overall): Rod Moore, SAF, Michigan
A highly touted defender last year, a lingering knee injury led to Rod Moore’s decision to return to school. He isn’t thought about as a top-50 player anymore, but he remains a highly impactful multi-level defender with an above-average athletic profile. At worst, he’s a core contributor on teams and a rotational piece at safety for whoever the next head coach is in New York.
Round 5 (No. 144 overall): Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas
Gunnar Helm is a riser in the process. Not everything has been perfect for Texas, but Helm has been a consistent contributor at the tight end spot. He can align as the Y next to the tackle and has experience creating separation as the ‘F’ in space. This is a position I wouldn’t be shocked GM Joe Douglas addresses sooner on draft day, but I like the value here.
Round 6 (No. 181 overall): Nazir Stackhouse, IDL, Georgia
A physical presence up front, Nazir Stackhouse would provide immediate depth to a Jets unit lacking such behind Quinnen Williams. While he would enter camp as a second or third-string option battling the likes of Leki Fotu, Solomon Thomas, and 2024 UDFA Leonard Taylor III, Stackhouse has the experience and skill set to make a push for quality snaps as a rookie.
Round 6 (No. 208 overall): Nohl Williams, CB, Cal
A former transfer from UNLV, Nohl Williams has used 2024 as a springboard for his draft stock. He looks the part at 6-foot-1, has been excellent against good competition (see his Miami and Auburn tape), and has totaled six interceptions in seven games, the most in college football. I expect him to earn an opportunity at a pre-draft showcase this winter, per conversations around the league, which should allow his stock to continue to rise as the spring nears.
Round 7 (No. 224 overall): Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Virginia Tech
With it being so early in the process, I like to use these selections to introduce players to the audience that are currently unknown to the public eye. For Bhayshul Tuten, there aren’t many ball-carriers in the ACC that have been more impressive. He sits behind only North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton (901) in yards with 862 of his own and is coming off a historic 18-carry, 244-yard, three-touchdown game against Boston College in Week 8. A transfer from North Carolina A&T, Tuten is another name to know in the ever-growing list of draftable running backs in the 2025 class.
