New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas deserves much credit for what could be a fantastic draft haul.
With no picks after the fourth round, all of his seven selections could become starters sooner than later.
His handling of the first round is impressive because he took cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner with the fourth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Six picks later, they drafted again thanks to the Jamal Adams trade and chose wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
Douglas got an extra first-rounder from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for their second, third, and fifth-round selections.
The Jets used that pick for defensive end Jermaine Johnson II.
These additions to the Jets offense got former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III excited for the team’s future.
The @nyjets look ready for TAKEOFF! GM Joe Douglas might look like Will Sasso but the rest of the NFL isn’t laughing at what he’s doing with this Jets’ roster. @iamSauceGardner @GarrettWilson_V @ii_jermaine and @BreeceH will speed up Zach Wilson’s development DRASTICALLY.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) May 6, 2022
Griffin tweeted, “The @nyjets look ready for TAKEOFF! GM Joe Douglas might look like Will Sasso but the rest of the NFL isn’t laughing at what he’s doing with this Jets’ roster. @iamSauceGardner, @GarrettWilson_V, @ii_jermaine, and @BreeceH will speed up Zach Wilson’s development DRASTICALLY.”
The Draft Class That Could Turn Jets’ Fortunes Around
Wilson had nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions his rookie year.
But addressing some of their glaring needs could help Wilson become more confident.
Receiver Garrett Wilson will take over for Jamison Crowder, who signed with the Buffalo Bills and will help quarterback Zach Wilson perform better.
Likewise, the Jets finished 26th in sacks last regular season and Johnson can help improve their standing.
Finally, the team ranked 30th in passing yards allowed per game at 259.4 and Gardner can help reduce that number.
It might take a while before the Jets become a legitimate competitor because the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins are in their division.
Still, they are in the right direction with this draft class.
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