Skimming through myriad mock drafts that have surfaced ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft, many believe Jets GM Joe Douglas will be targeting a No. 1 receiver for Sam Darnold. There are a few playmakers for New York to choose from, including Alabama's Jerry Jeudy, Oklahoma's CeeDee Lamb, and Clemson's Tee Higgins.
Having a top receiver is definitely a need for the Jets, but is that what they should be focused on with the No. 11 overall pick? What about protecting Darnold?
While there's multiple playmakers to salivate over in the first round, there's just as many offensive linemen to bulk up that unit for the Jets.
Now don't get me wrong: the Jets would definitely be happy to land someone like Jeudy, who falls to them in a few mock drafts. Some believe he's the next Julio Jones coming out of the Crimson Tide program based on his speed, size and ability to go up and haul in any throw. Lamb is also another pristine route runner with blazing speed.
But the Jets do have offensive weapons like Le'Veon Bell and Jamison Crowder. And Chris Herndon returns from injury next season. Douglas will also likely go after Robby Anderson on the free agent market, especially after a strong second-half finish last season.
It wasn't the yards after catch or dropped passes that stymied the Jets' offense last season, though. The offensive line was the main problem -- not creating holes for Bell to run through as well as making Darnold run for his life to make a play.
According to Football Outsiders, the Jets had the 30th-ranked pass protection last season after allowing 52 total sacks (9.2 percent sack rate). And they were even worse in run blocking at 31st overall after allowing 3.29 yards per game on the ground.
Almost every position on the line could use an upgrade, but the tackle positions take priority. Kelvin Beachum's production at left tackle has been consistent over the past few seasons, but nothing to be revered. He allowed four sacks last season with six penalties to his name. At right tackle, though, Brandon Shell (63.6 Pro Football Focus grade) and rookie Chuma Edoga (48.9 grade) combined for 13 sacks allowed.
The tackle positions are so crucial in a functioning offensive line, and someone like Douglas with a background in that area knows that fact. So he may lean toward shoring up that group first before adding another playmaker.
Iowa's Tristan Wirfs (if he does come out for the Draft) would definitely be a name to watch. CBS Sports has him ranked second at the tackle position behind Georgia's Andrew Thomas, who experts believe could go Top 5. He is massive at 6-foot-5, 322 pounds, but has very quick feet and a strong punch at attack. He could play either tackle position.
There's also Jedrick Wills from Alabama. He's also almost identical to Wirfs at 6-foot-5, 320 pounds, and scouts love him in pass protection. That should be music to Douglas' ears, though Wills has played right tackle throughout his college career. Louisville's Mekhi Becton and USC's Austin Jackson are also names to keep in mind.
Of course, it all comes down to who's on the draft board after the first 10 picks. But if these mock drafts do come to fruition, the Jets will have a choice between a new receiver or new tackle.