For the past week, the New York Jets have been linked to a draft trade for Jameis Winston as doubt surrounds both Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick. There has been plenty of speculation that the Jets are eyeing quarterback options in the draft since head coach Todd Bowles made it clear he wants to add another player to the rotation, but the chances that comes in the first round are slim.
According to ESPN's Rich Cimini, the Jets are leaning towards a wide receiver or pass rusher with their No. 6 pick in the draft over grabbing a quarterback. Right now, the price is high to acquire either Jameis Winston or Marcus Mariota. The Jets would likely need to trade up into the top two picks which could cost them greatly to do so. The New York Daily News reported the Jets brought in both Mariota and Winston for pre-draft workouts, but will only select either option if they fall on the boards. If Mariota falls to No. 6, of course the Jets would likely select him, but a move up is not in the draft plan.
Instead, Cimini writes players like Amari Cooper, Kevin White, Vic Beasley or Dante Fowler Jr are the better first-round options. The Jets have been eyeing a young wide receiver to pair with Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker. Both Cooper and White are considered game changers who could start immediately. If no other quarterback is added to the Jets' roster, getting Cooper or White at least gives the starter a fighting chance at being successful. The inconsistencies of Jeremy Kerley would no longer be an issue with either player.
The case is also being made for a pass rusher to get selected. In the New York Daily News' mock draft, they have the Jets selecting either Fowler or Beasley with the No. 6 pick in order to help rebuild an aging defense. Under Rex Ryan, the Jets were a defense-first team. That is not expected to change under Bowles, but the team needs some youth and athleticism put back in the rotation.
To help the quarterback issue, the Jets could easily target someone in a later round. The Daily News is reporting the Jets have held workouts for both Brett Hundley and Bryce Petty. Both quarterbacks are expected to be available in the second round while Petty could still be hanging out in the third round. This might be the preferred move as the Jets can fill more pressing needs first.
