With the Super Bowl officially over, it is mock draft time in the NFL. The NFL Draft is just a few months away while the combine is right around the corner and fans want to know who their team will draft to help push them in a better direction. The New York Jets are one of those teams that need a better direction and that starts with the quarterback position. As Geno Smith struggles, could the Jets grab Marcus Mariota?
According to ESPN NFL Analyst Todd McShay, the Jets will land Mariota who is predicted to fall out of the top spot and into No. 6. McShay believes the Tampa Bay Buccaneers actually favor drafting Jameis Winston No. 1 overall as he is considered the better quarterback for the system. This is certainly a change in tune from those who believe the former Oregon star is the best of the bunch as a number of teams continue to get linked to trades for Mariota.
Even if Mariota is not drafted No. 1 overall, that does not mean he will make it all the way to the New York Jets. A number of teams favor Mariota for their future. The Tennessee Titans will be drafting at No. 2 and they need to draft a quarterback as Jake Locker heads to free agency. The Cleveland Browns are eyeing packing their two first-round picks in order to get Mariota. The Philadelphia Eagles reportedly want to sell the farm and grab the quarterback. The chances Mariota is still sitting around at No. 6 are very slim which could cause the Jets to make a move up.
Regardless, the Jets need a quarterback. Smith is not cutting it and no one in the front office is prepared to endorse his future with the franchise. Offensive coordinator Chan Gailey said he would evaluate Smith and see what his potential is in the team, but the team will explore all options at the position. The Jets could make a move for someone like Jay Cutler, but considering they are rebuilding, his contract is less than favorable to take on. They could also try and pull Brian Hoyer or Ryan Mallett in free agency that would pair well with Smith as he develops. All the cards are on the table, but the team should not bet on Mariota still be on the board when they make their first pick.
