Quarterbacks aside, it’s been more than a decade since the Jets used a first-round pick on a skill position.
Dustin Keller was the last. The Jets used the 30th overall pick in the 2008 draft on the Purdue tight end. Now, after 12 years, Gang Green is tied with the Steelers for the second-longest streak without drafting a non-QB skill position in the first round. The Packers own the longest such streak at 18 years.
Since 2008, the Jets have used first-round picks on four defensive backs, three defensive tackles, two defensive ends, one linebacker and one offensive tackle. They have also drafted two quarterbacks — Mark Sanchez and Sam Darnold — since 2008.
Since Keller, wide receiver Devin Smith is the highest Gang Green has drafted a non-QB skill player. He was taken with the 37th overall pick (second round) in 2015. That didn’t work out for New York, as Smith battled injuries from the onset of his career.
Keller, meanwhile, was an effective tight end for the Jets, catching 17 touchdowns and totaling just under 3,000 yards over five seasons in New York.
The question now is whether or not the Jets will snap their streak.
Joe Douglas is expected to take a quarterback — specifacally BYU’s Zach Wilson — with the second overall pick. But the Jets also own the 23rd pick in the first round. It’s possible Douglas uses that on a talented wide receiver or a do-it-all running back depending on who’s still available, but it makes more sense to use that selection on an offensive lineman or a cornerback.
Upgradring the pass-rush and trading back are also more likely options at this stage in the draft.
Fortunately for Douglas, this is a deep draft when it comes to skill positions. He should be able to find some impact players later on if New York’s streak continues.
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