All eyes point to the NFL Draft in Green Bay. Before that, we’ll examine the state of the New York Jets post free-agency in this latest mock draft. While the NFL Draft is a month away, the Jets’ latest move in free agency helps paint a clear picture of their plans. This will be the second Jets mock draft I’ve made this offseason. This Jets mock draft will feature starting positions being filled across both areas of the field. This mock draft will feature all seven of the Jets draft picks in the first six rounds of the NFL Draft this year.
Jets Mock Draft Post Free Agency: New York’s Fresh Start
Before beginning this mock draft, let’s review the Jets moves this offseason. Thus far, the team has addressed significant needs. They enter 2025 with Justin Fields as their new starting quarterback. After an impressive short stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Justin Fields has grown as a passer since he was with the Chicago Bears. Free agent cornerback Brandon Stephens arrives from the Baltimore Ravens to replace a departed DJ Reed. The defensive line even got additions with three-time Super Bowl champion Derrick Nnandi of the Kansas City Chiefs.
As of this writing, the team still has questions at multiple positions. On offense, they would benefit from addressing tight end, right tackle, and wide receiver. Despite the Justin Fields signing, I believe a development quarterback should be addressed. On defense, adding depth at both defensive tackle and edge rusher will be important. Additionally, finding a true strong safety as well.
First Round/7th overall pick: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
First-year offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand had a specialty while on the Detroit Lions. He’s worked well with tight ends. During his tenure, he helped develop two great tight ends between TJ Hockenson and Sam LaPorta. Penn State tight end Tyler Warren is a multifaceted playmaker. Utilized both as a receiving tight end and a fullback, he was essential to quarterback Drew Allar & the Nittany Lions offense. While in Chicago, Justin Fields targeted tight end Cole Kmet over 70 times twice. With Fields’ preference for utilizing tight ends, it makes sense to invest in the position.
Second Round/42nd overall pick: Wyatt Milum, OT, West Virginia
While the team added to the offensive line with longtime Green Bay Packers center Josh Myers, the offensive line needs help. Despite retaining 80% of their starting offensive line from the second half of last year, the team has a hole. The departure of Morgan Moses has left a vacancy at right tackle. To address this, New York would be wise to select Wyatt Milum. While his arm length has drawn concerns, Milum’s impact both in run blocking and pass protection is undeniable. Standing 6’6″ and 313 lbs, Milum was a consensus All-American who could excel even if he moved inside to guard.
Third Round/73rd overall pick: Kevin Winston Jr, S, Penn State
The secondary was addressed with the signings of Andre Cisco and Brandon Stephens. However, adding a strong safety to pair with Cisco would be wise. Kevin Winston Jr. has dealt with an injury-filled 2024 and struggles with on-field recognition at times. But with his size frame and strong tackling abilities, head coach Aaron Glenn could develop him into a productive run stopper operating downhill out of the secondary.
Fourth Round/109th overall pick: Will Howard, QB, Ohio State
After adding three starting-caliber players in the first three picks, the Jets make another investment at quarterback. With Justin Fields on a two-year deal, New York can still add to the depth chart. After a rough NFL Combine, that shouldn’t hurt Will Howard too much. With over 40 games of starting experience over five seasons, Howard’s experience and strong College Football Playoff run make him an intriguing prospect. In addition, his time with Brian Hartline could lead him to be able to find chemistry with Garrett Wilson in a hurray.
Fifth Round/146th overall pick: Don’te Thornton, WR, Tennessee
When the Jets hired Tanner Engstrand, the Jets hope they can replicate the Lions high-powered passing game. To achieve this, they will need a boundary wide receiver with size and speed. Despite a limited route tree, Tennessee wide receiver Don’te Thornton fits the bill. At 6’5″ with 4.43 40 time speed, he has the tools to be a greay big body receiver opposite of Garrett Wilson.
Fifth Round/157th overall pick(acquired from the Steelers): Kaimon Rucker, DE, UNC
A healthy Jermaine Johnson is going to be great to witness, but the team could still use depth in the trenches. If Kaimon Rucker had more size, he’d easily be a higher draft pick. Despite his 6’2, 254lb frame, Rucker has the tools to be an efficient pass rusher, amassing 14.5 sacks over his final 19 games at North Carolina.
Sixth Round/188th overall pick: Jack Nelson, OT, Wisconsin
After selecting Wyatt Milum in the second round, New York will double-dip on the offensive line to start the 6th. While a work in progress as a run blocker, Jack Nelson has major upside in pass protection. In time, he could be a steal if he develops into a swing tackle.
Sixth Round/209th overall pick(acquired from the Chiefs): RJ Mickens, S, Clemson
A full-circle moment for Aaron Glenn. The Jets select the son of Aaron Glenn’s fellow ex=Jets cornerback and friend Ray Mickens. RJ Mickens was a four-year starter at Clemson. Mickens will make an early impact on special teams but could develop in certain sub-packages on defense.
Main Photo: [Michael C. Johnson] – USA Today Sports