New York Jets: 7-Round 2016 NFL Mock Draft

Round 2- OLB Leonard Floyd, Georgia

When it comes to the linebacker position for the Jets, it’s an area that needs some bolstering to. Both Quinton Coples and Calvin Pace are nearing the end of their careers and while hopes are high for Lorenzo Mauldin, he still has a way to go before reaching the level of an every down kind of athlete. That’s why in the second round of the draft, the Jets should address their needs at linebacker by drafting outside linebacker Leonard Floyd out of Georgia.

Floyd has experience at both the outside and inside linebacker positions with good speed to come off the edge as a pass rusher and decent zone coverage. He’s made a name for himself in rushing the quarterback as so far this season, he has 17.0 sacks and 176 tackles. What’s good is since the Jets have a great veteran presence at linebacker, he can be molded for the next year or two and be able to execute nicely with further development.

The Jets are going to continue taking solid draft picks that are able to contribute when their number is called but in a gradual kind of way. It worked well for both Mauldin and defensive end Leonard Williams as they were used mostly in situational packages to utilize their strengths on defense. Expect to see much the same with a player of Floyd’s character who will thrive on the defense of the Jets to continue making that part of the team a true force to reckon with.

Another great thing about Floyd is his strength and power to come off with bursting speed right to anyone that has the football. He’s got a great motor to keep up with top offenses and doesn’t get too tired easily. Many predict he could be a first-round talent but I see him falling to the second round as to which if he’s available when the Jets are on the clock, they’d have no choice but to take him thanks to everything he would bring to the table.

Next: Round 3