Jets Select Aaron Rodgers’ Successor in 2023 FanNation Mock Draft

Gang Green invests in its future with big-armed quarterback prospect from Kentucky

Aaron Rodgers gives an immediate boost to the New York Jets’ Super Bowl hopes, but the 39-year old quarterback provides no long-term security.

Meanwhile, Kentucky’s Will Levis possesses a preferred playing style and elite arm strength that should translate magnificently in the National Football League. The first-round talent’s physical tools make him arguably the most-intriguing quarterback prospect of the 2023 Draft class.

If a signal caller with franchise player potential, like Levis, is available when Gang Green’s turn comes up at No. 13 overall, general manager Joe Douglas could opt to fortify the future.

That logic was the driving force behind the Jets’ first-round pick in the FanNation Mock Draft.

13. New York Jets

Pick: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

Analysis: Eyeing a top-tier offensive tackle in this spot, the strategy shifted when Levis fell out of the top 10. Even with Aaron Rodgers coming to town, the most intriguing quarterback prospect of the 2023 draft class is too good to pass up. Levis has a howitzer for a right arm and gained experience running a pro-style offense at Kentucky. There’s no harm in letting him sit behind Rodgers for the time being. Remember, the Chiefs kept Mahomes on the sideline during his rookie season in favor of Alex Smith. — Ralph Ventre, Jets Country

Kentucky QB Will Levis on the run against Georgia / Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports

Levis, the 2022 College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Team Member of the Year, went 418-of-636 passing (65.7) for 5,233 yards and 43 touchdowns in two seasons as the Wildcats’ starting signal caller.

Standing nearly 6’4” and weighing 230 pounds, Levis sports a sturdy frame that evokes comparisons to a junior Josh Allen. Levis, who transferred to UK after playing two seasons at Penn State, totaled 17 career rushing touchdowns.

Levis became the third quarterback in UK history with at least four games of 365+ passing yards, joining former NFL Draft picks Tim Couch and Jared Lorenzen.

With a noticeable zip on his throws, Levis, who measured with 10.5-inch hands, made for some enjoyable television during NFL Combine passing drills. The two-time team captain also registered a 10-foot-4 broad jump at the Combine, ranking second to only Florida’s Anthony Richardson amongst quarterbacks.

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