The New York Jets are looking to be aggressive. With a new head coach and general manager in place the team is looking to rebuild now and not later. That means all of the positions are being evaluated and while the Jets did a good job of addressing needs in free agency, the quarterback position continues to be a lingering issue. The Jets can upgrade on offense all they want, but if Geno Smith keeps struggling, the issue will remain. With the draft just a week away, Marcus Mariota is coming in for a visit.
The Jets own the No. 6 pick in the NFL Draft and are exploring all trade options when it comes to moving up for a big-named player. According to NFL Media's Albert Breer, Mariota was at the Jets facility while also having a private workout on campus with the team as New York looks at their chances of acquiring the former Oregon star. The Jets have been interested in Mariota for most of the offseason, but a visit had yet to be reported.
If the Jets are going to move up to get Mariota, they likely have to jump to the No. 2 pick. That could seriously cost the Jets considering the competition for that pick is very high. New York does not have players they can toss in like San Diego or Chicago which means they must be willing to wager picks to get a deal done. According to the New York Post, the Jets will make a deal if it is right, but are not aiming to give up their whole stash on one player.
The interest in Mariota comes after trade rumors Jameis Winston circulated. The Jets were looking into getting Winston, but that would mean moving up to No. 1 overall. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Jets never got a visit with Winston and likely will not heading into the draft. If the team misses out on Mariota, they could target a quarterback in a later round. The Jets have worked out Bryce Petty, Brett Hundley and Garrett Grayson. All three quarterbacks could easily go in the second or third round which would give the Jets flexibility.
Every mock draft is different for the Jets. Some believe they will take Dante Fowler and help the defensive line while others believe Amari Cooper or Kevin White are the intended targets. The Jets have options, but a quarterback trade is the first priority.
