New York Jets Draft Prospect: Durable FCS Guard Adds Offensive Line Depth

Could South Dakota State guard Mason McCormick add strength and attitude to the New York Jets offensive line?

Mason McCormick (60) talks to another player during practice at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium / Samantha Laurey / Argus Leader / USA

Though the New York Jets have done a masterful job this offseason of rebuilding what had been a severely fractured offensive line in 2023, they remain open to fortifying its depth through the upcoming NFL Draft. 

Amid reports that the Jets are considering selecting a top-level pass-catcher for quarterback Aaron Rodgers with their No. 10 selection, they may find capable depth options on Day 3. Accordingly, one prospect which may catch New York’s attention is South Dakota State (SDSU) guard Mason McCormick. 

South Dakota State's Mark Gronowski runs with the ball alongside Mason McCormick (60) / Erin Bormett / Argus Leader via Imagn

Known for his remarkable durability, McCormick is a three-year team captain for the Jackrabbits who started 57 consecutive collegiate games. The 6-4, 309-pound guard plays the interior with a bit of a mean streak — a trait which could earn him a cult-favorite status in East Rutherford. Accordingly, he is known for finishing his blocks with authority. Should offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett look to utilize pulling guards in select run packages, the South Dakota State product would be quite effective in such a role.

Some draft pundits have argued that McCormick’s skill set should warrant higher than his current Day 3 projection. However, inconsistency with his footwork in both run blocking and pass protection have led to some difficulty when seeking leverage on his opponents. Accordingly, he will enter the NFL as a low-risk prospect with a potentially high upside. 

Despite the team’s struggles at quarterback, a large portion of the blame for the Jets' anemic output in 2023 can be attributed to the porous nature of their offensive line. The Jets are clearly prioritizing the upgrade of their offensive line, as evidenced by trading for veteran right tackle Morgan Moses and signing former Dallas Cowboys legend Tyron Smith and ex-Baltimore Ravens New York's line struggled mightily last season, suiting up a total of fourteen different linemen and having utilized eleven offensive line combinations.

Ranking in the lower third of the NFL in nearly every measurable metric — including No. 30 overall by Pro Football Network — it should come as no surprise that New York may be eager to invest additional capital at the position for 2024. N