New York Jets Draft Profile: Texas Tackle Christian Jones; Even With Tyron?

The New York Jets may turn their attention to Texas Longhorns tackle Christian Jones as a developmental swing option in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Few NFL  teams, if any, have been as productive this offseason as the New York Jets. 

What had been a quiet start to the league year  for the Jets reached an elevated decibel level with their signing of former Dallas Cowboys’ five-time All Pro offensive tackle Tyron Smith.  

Filling arguably their greatest offseason need, the Jets signed Smith to a one-year contract, which could be worth up to $20 million with incentives. 

Nonetheless, New York still maintains a need for a swing reserve with the potential to be a contributor along the offensive line for many years to come. Should they look to the middle rounds of the upcoming NFL Draft, Texas tackle Christian Jones may be of great interest to the Jets. 

Feb 1, 2024; Mobile, AL, USA; American offensive lineman Christian Jones of Texas (70)

Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

Throughout the past four seasons, Jones has been one of the Longhorns most reliable and versatile offensive linemen. Despite earning his first starting spot in 2020 at right tackle, he moved to left tackle and had a strong year blocking for ex-Texans running back Bijan Robinson, now a member of the Atlanta Falcons. In 2022, Jones went back to right tackle and remained there for 2023. Jones could be a versatile swing tackle backup to start out his pro career.

For the first time in 13 years, the Jets not only seem poised to erase an embarrassing playoff deficit, but they also have a legitimate chance to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl — thanks to a repaired offense and their stout defense. Adding a tackle of Smith’s caliber to protect Rodgers’ blind side will allow the 40-year-old both the time and space he needs to operate at a high level. 

Still, the ex-Cowboys legend is signed for one year. As such, they will need to add sustainable depth for the foreseeable future. Whether the Jets draft Jones or another developmental tackle, New York is almost certain to remain in the market for swing options to add depth behind Smith, and fellow starters Joe Tippmann, Morgan Moses, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and John Simpson.