Ex-Jets Scout Says D.K. Metcalf Would Be Superstar in New York

This former Jets scout says New York trading for D.K. Metcalf this offseason is a no-brainer.

Author:
Daniel Kelly
Publish date:
Mar 14, 2022 10:06 AM EDT

In this story:

New York Jets

Seattle Seahawks

If Seahawks’ wide receiver D.K. Metcalf was coming out in this year’s draft, he would be a top-10 pick.

Should the Jets consider trading with Seattle to get Metcalf?

Absolutely.

Why?

Metcalf is exactly the type of receiver quarterback Zach Wilson needs to be successful.
Metcalf would bring star power to the receiver position the Jets have not had since Keyshawn Johnson.

Granted, Metcalf is entering into the last year of his rookie deal, and he will command north of $20 million per-year in 2023.

Let me repeat…

The Jets should really think long and hard about making this deal.

Yes, it will cost the Jets their No. 10 pick overall — and maybe more.

Some may say that price is too much. However, the reality is historically 53% of first round picks turn out to be busts. As good as these first-round prospects were in college, selecting them almost comes down to the flip of a coin whether or not they will make it in the NFL.

Trading an unknown possibility for a proven 24-year-old superstar talent like Metcalf is a no-brainer.

Seattle is in rebuilding mode, so the trade fits them and the trade fits Wilson in New York like two puzzle pieces fitting together.

The Jets’ second-year quarterback’s biggest weakness is his erratic downfield ball placement (throws not being where they need to be).

READ: What the Russell Wilson Trade Means For the Jets

Metcalf can compensate with a huge catch-radius (ability to catch anything thrown in his direction). He uses his chiseled and athletic frame exceptionally well to box-out smaller corners, and he can go up and get it with the aggression and physicality of an NBA player going up to get a rebound.

Wilson excels most at throwing shorter range passes. Metcalf excels at picking up yards after catch.

New York needs a true No. 1 receiver…

Metcalf is all that.

Should the Yankees Trade For Seattle Seahawks WR D.K. Metcalf?

This former Jets scout believes D.K. Metcalf would be a superstar if New York traded for him.

Grading D.K. Metcalf

Seattle Seahawks WR D.K. Metcalf uses stiff arm — Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

6-foot-4, 235 pounds

2021 game film reviewed: (9/26) MIN, (10/31) JAX and (12/21) LAR

2021 stats: 75 receptions/129 targets, 967 yards, 12.9 average, 12 TD

GRADE: A (Blue-chip player and elite)

Scouting Report

Seattle Seahawks WR D.K. Metcalf scores touchdown — Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Dominant combination of speed, athleticism, strength and physicality with phenomenal technique. Dominant presence. Excels in the short to intermediate range. Just too much for corners to handle. Fast looking get off and drives corners off with authority, which allows him to quickly break it off and create separation. Uses hands well to fight off. Nice swim move to create inside route leverage. Excels at short slants where he uses his big strong frame to easily box out smaller corners. Excels at bubble screens, and he is a strong and determined runner after the catch. Can run deeper come back routes all day long. Intimidates corners who give him too much space. Nice job of clearing things out underneath because of this. Does an absolutely outstanding job setting corners up (with set up speed) and creating separation on routes. Shifts gears quickly. Has a real feel for getting open. Plucks ball out of the air with his strong hands. Excels in the red zone. Average blocker. Unique and impressive receiver.

Bottom Line

Seattle Seahawks WR D.K. Metcalf warms up before game — Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Metcalf would be a 100-catch per year superstar in New York. He was way under-utilized on game film in Seattle. Pairing a 24-year-old talent like this with Wilson is the absolute best thing team general manager Joe Douglas could ever do to help his 22-year-old struggling quarterback.

Metcalf and Wilson would be the perfect football marriage in New York.