2020 NFL Draft: Sam Darnold, Bless Austin among Jets’ winners and losers

Sam Darnold and Bless Austin are among the Jets winners and losers following the completion of the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Jets went into the 2020 NFL Draft with the main objective of making sure Sam Darnold has the tools around him to become a better quarterback in 2020.

New York certainly did that, adding two offensive linemen and two skill players. The Jets put Darnold in a better position to succeed than they ever have before. At the same time, they were able to find value on the defensive side of the ball, adding more contributors for Gregg Williams to utilize. The draft has unintended consequences and while some may reap its benefits, there are other players who have been put on notice by the organization.

Now that it’s over, let’s take a look at the Jets’ winners and losers from the 2020 NFL Draft.

Winner: Sam Darnold

(Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports)

Joe Douglas promised Sam Darnold’s parents he would do everything in his power to protect their son. Douglas did that with the selections of Mekhi Becton and Cameron Clark, two physical bullies on the line who will be menacing in the run game and ensure the protection of their quarterback.

In addition, Douglas was able to add a wide receiver, Denzel Mims, who has the potential to be a No. 1 at the next level. His wide catch radius should certainly improve the Jets’ struggles in the red zone in years past. Also coming aboard is Florida running back La’Mical Perine, who is an ideal dual-threat back to complement Le’Veon Bell.

While the Jets may have wanted to add another pass catcher, they’ve certainly put Darnold in a better position to succeed from a protection standpoint. There is still the undrafted free agency period and veterans will shake loose once training camp is underway. For now, Darnold is in a better position after this weekend than he ever has been in a Jets uniform.