Jets Opt for Offensive Line Strength Over Skill Positions in Draft, Rodgers Approves

The Jets went with tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu despite having Brock Bowers available to the board on Thursday night. Rodgers didn’t seem to care. 

Much was made about whether the Jets would supply Rodgers with a weapon on Thursday night. Wideouts Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze were their top targets, but they were picked before they had a chance to make a selection for the 10th pick. 

As a result, they traded with the Vikings for the 11th pick. Instead of landing Georgia’s touchdown monster, who scored 31 touchdowns in 40 games, they chose the Big 10 Offensive Lineman of the Year. 

Not only did New York move back one spot, but they also collected fourth-round and fifth-round selections in the process. In addition, they gave the Vikings a sixth-round selection. 

Instead, New York now has a third-round pick and three fourth-round picks. The Jets may be able to leap back into the second round, where their selection was traded to the Green Bay Packers in last April’s Rodgers trade.

However, New York intends to add an offensive skill player, most likely a receiver. The scenario of the Jets selecting a wide receiver or pass-catcher in the first round is familiar to Rodgers. 

Throughout his 15 years as a starter, the Packers have not used a first-round selection to back up a wide receiver or tight end. Defensive end Will McDonald was picked up by the Jets last year. 

Fashanu intends to serve as the understudy to left tackle Tyron Smith, whom the Jets signed in free agency. If the need arises, this would enable Fashanu to learn from a future Hall of Famer while still serving as the overall number one for Rodgers’ blindside.