Mammoth Offensive Tackle On Jets' Draft Radar?
While the New York Jets will undoubtedly look to the upcoming NFL Draft to improve their offense, their greatest area of need is along the offensive line — particularly at offensive tackle.
With the left side having been manned by 2020 first-round pick Mekhi Becton and veteran Duane Brown last season — both of which are headed for free agency — New York are almost certainly surveying both the free agent market, as well as the list of Draft prospects, for Gang Green's next impactful lineman.
While it may take some creativity for them to will it into reality, the versatility and talent of Houston offensive tackle Patrick Paul is too intriguing to dismiss.
Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Paul is a massive (6-7, 315) tackle with equally impressive length, quickness and athleticism. Since redshirting as a freshman in 2021, he has been a mainstay on Houston’s offensive line. Paul’s size and versatility allows him to be an imposing physical presence on either side of the line’s edges. To both further his skill set and enhance his appeal, he developed greater awareness of his height to protect against smaller, savvy pass rushers who have found their way under his wingspan. Still, his above average foot speed should allow him the ability to be a starter at the outset of his career — especially along New York's struggling line.
Despite the team’s problems at quarterback, a large portion of the blame pie for the Jets' anemic output in 2023 can be attributed to the porous nature of their offensive line. Ranking in the lower third of the NFL in nearly every measurable metric — including No. 30 overall by Pro Football Network — it should come as no surprise that New York may be eager to invest prime draft capital to repair a severely fractured unit.
In addition to his skills on the field, his willingness to play wherever he is most needed will make him a valuable commodity when New York is on the clock.
However, therein also lies the biggest obstacle to their adding him to this season's draft class.
At present, Paul is being assigned a second-round value. His strong performance at last month's Senior Bowl helped improve his standing, while allowing some to place a first-round grade on him as well. With the Jets having surrendered their 2024 second-round pick (No. 41 overall) in the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers trade (since Rodgers played in less than 65 percent of the team's snaps) they would have to work the trade wire to secure his services. This draft, considered by many to be rich in tackle talent, includes Notre Dame's Joe Alt, Penn State's Olu Fashanu and Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga as its top options. As a result, Paul is unlikely to gain enough traction to warrant a first-round selection by the Jets at No. 10 overall — even with a standout performance at next week's scouting combine.
