New York Jets Next Move: Draft Edge Rusher After Offensive Signings?

The New York Jets have pacified concerns regarding the offense -- at least for 2024. Could Joe Douglas pivot to the other side of the ball at No. 10?

Nov 25, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Payton Thorne (1) runs away from a / Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

In the 13 NFL Drafts since 2011, the New York Jets have added to their defensive line in the first round seven times. It netted them stars like Quinnen Williams and Muhammad Wilkerson, and busts like Quinton Coples. While the jury is still out on 2023 first-round pick Will McDonald, Jets fans are tired of defensive linemen on Day 1, regardless of the picks’ merits.

Last year struck a particular chord as New York already boasted one of the better defensive lines in the sport and an Aaron Rodgers-led offense was in need of offensive help. McDonald was fine, generating three sacks in limited playing time, but will be tasked with replacing Bryce Huff, who signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency.

Will general manager Joe Douglas take the weight off McDonald’s shoulders with another first-round edge rusher?

Nov 25, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Payton Thorne (1) runs away from a / Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

It may be more likely than you think.

New York entered the offseason in desperate need of help along the offensive line and receiving corps. After signing veterans Tyron Smith and John Simpson to the left side of the line and re-acquiring right tackle Morgan Moses, offensive tackle is no longer a “must.” Of course, the Jets can opt to draft a succession plan at tackle with the 10th pick, but urgency has not turned into flexibility.

The Jets can reasonably take several different positions with their Day 1 selection or trade in either direction. With the pressure to add to the offense dwindling, Douglas could choose to return to his roots – building from the trenches.

If they choose to do so, they shouldn’t have a shortage of options. Both Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner and UCLA’s Laiatu Latu have a reasonable chance of being available. The class is offense-heavy at the top, with four quarterbacks seeming destined to go with the top few selections.

Both Turner and Latu are terrific athletes, with the former running a 4.46. There are some size concerns – as well as questions about just how well-earned his production was – but his size hasn’t slowed him down against the run. His relentless motor translates to the ground game and he processes exceptionally well on outside runs. Turner’s upside is in his freaky athletic traits helping hunt quarterbacks, but he isn’t the passing-down specialist he is sometimes made out to be.

Latu also exceeded expectations against the run, and many would argue he’s a more pro-ready pass rusher than Turner. While also boasting strong athletic traits, Latu is a dozen pounds heavier and generally showcases better technique.

Medicals sidelined his career, but he has since returned and quieted any concerns about how he’ll hold up, hence his first-round stock.

If either were to be selected, they’d join former first-rounders Jermaine Johnson II and McDonald on the edge, likely allowing McDonald to remain in Huff’s former role, where he didn’t see many snaps against the run. Perhaps they'd see the snaps once envisioned for Jadeveon Clowney, who signed with the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday.

It likely wouldn’t be received well – and depending on how the board falls, could justifiably be criticized – but it’s a possibility that shouldn’t be ignored, especially given Douglas’ tendencies and the prevalence of pass rushing in today’s game.