2008 New York Jets NFL Draft Needs

Now take a look at our 2008 New York Jets Predictions!

The Jets took a huge step backwards last season after a surprising burst in 2006. As a result we didn't here much "Man-genius" talk about head coach Eric Mangini, who was most famous for blowing the whistle on New England's spying tactics. There is a lot of good talent on this team from four straight successful drafts so it is only a matter of time before the talent is groomed. Still, the Jets need to add playmakers on both sides of the ball, especially at wide receiver and outside linebacker. Jimmy Boyd's 2008 New York Jets NFL Draft needs article gives you the run down.

#1 Outside Linebacker

After a breakout 2006, Bryan Thomas slumped last season with only 2.5 sacks. The Jets don't have time to sit around and see if he will come back to life. The Jets needs to add a pass rusher that their opponents must game-plan around. Ohio State's Vernon Gholston or Auburn's Quentin Groves could fill the hole.

#2 Wide Receiver

The Jets haven't had a speedster to spread out the field since trading Santana Moss to the Redskins three seasons ago. And, they haven't had a tall, powerful receiver since 2000, when they traded Keyshawn Johnson to Tampa Bay. Indiana's James Hardy is a little bit of both at 6'7'' with great speed. The Jets may even still have a shot at him in round two. Arkansas' Marcus Monk and Texas' Limas Sweed are other available options.

#3 Right Tackle

If Michigan's Jake Long falls to put the Jets in a position to take him with the sixth overall pick, it's likely they won't pass on the opportunity. The Jets would either move Long to the right side, from his natural spot on the left, to groom him, or move D'Brickashaw Ferguson to the right side. If the Jets wait to fill this spot, they will set their sights on Texas' Tony Hills or Auburn's King Dunlap in the second or third rounds.

#4 Cornerback

Darrelle Revis will hold down the fort on the left side for a long time, but the Jets must shore up the right. Veteran Hank Poteat finished the 2007 season as the starter, and plays hard, but the Jets must get younger and more physical at this spot. Colorado's Terrence Wheatley, Nebraska's Zachary Bowman, and Oklahoma's Marcus Walker are all solid options.

#5 Fullback

The Jets' running game could really benefit from a conventional fullback, instead of ust lining up tight ends in the backfield. West Virginia's Owen Schmitt was fantastic in springing Pat White and Steve Slaton and could be just what the Jets are looking for. Cincy's Doug Jones and Georgia Tech's Mike Cox are other options late in the draft.

Make sure you check out all of Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL Draft previews to see what direction your favorite NFL team might be headed in. Also check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft to see how Jimmy sees the first round shaping up.

April 8th, 2008