jigsawjoey

The day is finally here.  Most pundits have the Jets selecting one of the following three players:

Vernon Gholston - Probably what most folks call their safest bet, I have to disagree.  He didn’t exactly exhibit the kind of motor that one would expect from a outside rusher in the 3-4.  How would he play if he had to drop in coverage to cover a flanking back or a tight end?  I’m not sold on this guy.  He seems like the workout warrior that gets everyone excited after the combine, but his film doesn’t quite match up.

Darren McFadden - The pick most Jets fans hope drops to us.  Will the Raiders pass on him?  Will the Cowboys trade up to get him?  Tailbacks are a pretty sure thing when it comes to drafts.  While he’s not the next Adrian Peterson as most folks are dubbing him, he will have a solid NFL career and a productive rookie season behind the Jets’ retooled offensive line.  Sure, he might have some character issues.  He grew up in a rough area, his siblings ran with gangs.  But no one can deny his on-the-field talent and his home run ability.  The Jets need a burst in their backfield with a bit more size than Leon Washington.  This is everyone’s dream scenario.  But can it happen?

Matt Ryan - This would be one of those picks where the Jets would be exhibiting a lack of faith in Kellen Clemens.  I can’t say I blame them.  I feel much more confident giving Pennington another year behind the retooled offensive line.  He excelled when they had a strong running game two years ago (does everyone forget that he was Comeback Player of the Year and sports one of the best QB ratings in NFL history?) and would have the opportunity to do so again.  Ryan could wait in the wings for a couple of years, but it would cause serious controversy in the QB ranks and I’m not sure that would be a very good thing for all folks involved.  Maybe trade Clemens to the Falcons… or Lions?

Or, maybe the Jets will trade down.  So much will be determined by picks two thru four.  Regardless, this is bound to be a memorable first round of the NFL Draft and I’m totally stoked!