The New York Jets continue to get linked to Jameis Winston heading into the NFL Draft at the end of the month, but it is unclear exactly how serious they are in trying to acquire the quarterback. For months, mock drafts have had Winston getting selected No. 1 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Marcus Mariota quickly to follow. However, no that is not as much of a guarantee, but are the Jets the team to land the former Heisman winner?
According to the New York Daily News, the Jets have shown the most interest in Winston and would be willing to try and trade up to acquire the quarterback. Set to make their first pick at No. 6, a move to the top spot could be extremely costly for the Jets. Sure, the team could try and offer up Geno Smith in the deal, similar to what the Chicago Bears are doing with Jay Cutler and the Tennessee Titans, but that move seems unlikely. Head coach Todd Bowles wants to add another quarterback, but giving up Smith in the process is not the smartest thing.
With competition high for both Winston and Mariota, the Jets are exploring their options. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Jets have brought in Bryce Petty for a workout before the draft. He is considered one of the top five quarterbacks in this year's draft class. Petty could easily be around come the third round as Brett Hundley could get selected before him.
Manish Maheta of the New York Daily News is also reporting the Jets are bringing in Garrett Grayson for a workout. The former Colorado State standout is viewed as a darkhorse in this year's draft. He has a cannon for an arm with enough mobility to make him work in the modern day mobile offenses. Grayson could easily be around in the fourth round of the draft which could be a big bargain for New York.
The Jets need a quarterback. Smith is entering his third season and is not guaranteed the starting job. Ryan Fitpatrick was acquired by the team and is currently healing from a broken leg that will delay his debut on the field. New York does not have a quarterback on the roster that inspires a lot of confidence in fans and the draft could be the best way to get someone that will help.
