Now that the New York Jets are officially living in a post-Darrelle Revis world, they can begin to focus on re-building their defense. A unit that once focused around "Revis Island" will now need to develop around less marquee players. The Jets are now making defense their priority in the first round of the NFL Draft. While they will look at numerous secondary players, Barkevious Mingo is the team's top target in the first round.
The Jets are reportedly very high on the outside linebacker from LSU. New York is in desperate need of a pass rusher and Mingo is seen as a good fit with his ability to be an immediate starter. Last season, Quinton Coples was the led pass rusher for the team and only recorded 5.5 sacks on the year. Mingo averaged 4.5 sacks last season against an SEC conference loaded with NFL talent. His ceiling of potential is considered very high for the NFL. He exceled in drills at the combine and the Jets have spoken to him numerous times leading up to the draft.
The downside of Mingo is his size. At 6'4, 241 pounds, he is considerably undersized for an NFL linebacker. Many players at his position normally top out at 320 or so and most NFL scouts do not seen Mingo getting any better. It could hurt his chances at getting past some of the league's blockers. He has explosiveness off the line that has kept him in the first round.
The Jets re-signed Calvin Pace to a one-year deal. They are looking to pair a rookie next to the veteran in hopes of creating a strong one-two punch with their linebackers. If Mingo is off the board by the No. 9 pick, the Jets will likely consider former Oregon linebacker Dion Jordan with their first pick. He is scouted as the next-best pass rushers in the draft. Jordan has also worked out for the Jets and head coach Rex Ryan likes what he sees. Jordan has the versatility to be able to move around and cover tight ends while also serving as pass rusher. With the Revis trade, the Jets now have both the No. 9 and No. 13 pick and one of those will be used for the linebacker position.
