2019 NFL mock draft: Full 7-round version
By Joe Romano
3. New York Jets
Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky
Another team that lucks out when Arizona grabbed Kyler Murray instead of Nick Bosa are the New York Jets. Like the 49ers, New York is set at the quarterback position after drafting Sam Darnold a year ago. Also like the 49ers the Jets are lacking impact pass rushers who can get to the quarterback. Luckily for both, Arizona passing on Bosa ripples through the draft and lands the Jets Kentucky edge Josh Allen.
The New Jersey native Allen would return home with the Jets and was one of college football’s most improved players in 2018. His stock jumped up almost weekly as he continously wrecked offensive tackles in the SEC. At the combine in Indianapolis he did exactly what teams expected.
An underwhelming 4.6 40-yard dash was overlooked because Allen finished second in the bench press among edge defenders with 28 repetitions. He also finished inside the top ten for every other drill he participated in. The most impressive feat was his 4.23 shuttle that showcased his lateral mobility and change of direction skills.
For the Jets, Allen would give them a compliment outside to Leonard Williams inside. The team has questionably ignored the edge position in recent years. That changes with the new regime in place led by Adam Gase. Allen gives New York someone to get after the quarterback but can be a stand up outside linebacker in three man fronts. He is athletic enough to hold his own in coverage.
When he is able to pin his ears back, Allen is an elite edge bender who can couple his loose hips with a long arm to keep tackles off his frame. New York needs a player like Allen and the two are a perfect fit.