New York Jets Mock Draft – Second Round
There have been rumblings that Linderbaum, the consensus top center in the draft, could slide out of the first round as teams place an emphasis on securing some of the top wide receivers and edge talent on the draft’s first night. That would play to the benefit of the Jets, who would jump at the opportunity to snag Linderbaum as a long-term anchor for their offensive line.
New York does have a good center on the books in Connor McGovern but he is entering the final year of his contract, giving the Jets an opportunity to transition at one of the most important positions on the line. Cutting McGovern would also free $9 million from the Jets’ salary cap, freeing them up to make a big trade if an opportunity presents itself prior to the start of the season.
Adding Reed gave the Jets one solid starter at corner but there is room to upgrade over the existing group of No. 2’s that includes Bryce Hall and Brandin Echols. Elam is an intriguing choice in the second round since he has shown the ability to play in multiple defensive systems, giving Saleh and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich a weapon to utilize in different ways.
The Jets will love the fact that Elam has excellent top-end speed, an important distinction in a division now featuring Hill, and that he is productive around the football. Generating turnovers was a weakness for the New York secondary a year ago and Elam can be a huge upgrade in that department.