2016 NFL mock draft: Final edition

Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State

This is the big shocker of the first round. The New York Jets are strapped for cash and are not likely to bring back quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, despite the Harvard product having the best year of his journeyman career. With Fitzpatrick priced out of the Big Apple and the Jets staring down the barrel of a quarterback competition between Geno Smith and Bryce Petty, general manager Mike Maccagnan will roll the dice.

Most believe that Paxton Lynch will go off the board third at this position, but Connor Cook is the choice. Why? Because Cook played at a big-time program, has been the starter for three seasons and won major bowl games. In addition, Cook played in a pro-style offense that had him going down the field and through progressions. That was never the case for Lynch at Memphis.

There are questions about Cook’s demeanor, something exacerbated by the youngster not being named a captain throughout his years at Michigan State. if Cook’s attitude checks out, he is a much better player than Lynch and it would be understandable that the Jets take a chance on finally landing a franchise quarterback for the first time since Joe Namath.

Next: Redskins on the clock