Book of Malachi: Jets Target Western Kentucky Receiver at Scouting Combine?

New York Jets may look to revitalize their offensive by drafting a play-making receiver, with Western Kentucky’s Malachi Corley becoming an intriguing option.

With the NFL Scouting Combine underway in Indianapolis, the New York Jets contingent is already at work to ensure they compile a thorough portfolio of prospects for the upcoming draft. 

By media consensus, the Jets have been considered to be primarily in the market for help along the offensive line, especially after deciding to release guard Laken Tomlinson. 

Still, the Jets may look to the mid-rounds to fill their need for a play-making pass-catcher to aid quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Should they do so, a receiver likely to be on their radar is Western Kentucky’s Malachi Corley.   

Credit: AP Photo/Butch Dill

 Corley is becoming a fast-riser on several draft boards due to his stellar ability to create yards after the catch. He also possesses a great deal of vertical speed allowing him to contribute on the perimeter as well as in the middle of the field. 

In addition to his run-after-catch prowess, Corley stands out based on his footwork and body control at the top of his routes. On several occasions, his ability to start-and-stop at the advent of his stride allowed him to create separation from his defenders. Last season, Corley caught 79 passes for 984 yards and 11 touchdowns. His solid performance at the Senior Bowl will not only increase the amount of attention he receives from NFL scouts, it will also make him worth the watch as a strong fit within coordinator Nathaniel Hackett’s offense in New York

In the wake of Rodgers’ season-ending torn Achilles in Week 1 last season, New York’s pass-catchers struggled due to poor quarterback play and ineffective talent management. In fact, Pro Football Focus ranked them 31 of 32 NFL teams. The exception to the rule, star receiver Garrett Wilson, caught 95 passes for 1,042 yards and three touchdowns.

However, the Jets failed to receive notable contributions from the remaining components of their positional depth chart -- most notably Allen Lazard, who despite signing a four-year, $44 million deal with New York last offseason, logged only 23 catches for 311 yards and one touchdown.

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Despite the Jets currently being devoid of a second-rounder, the possibility of trading their No. 10 overall pick to maximize capital — while attempting to recoup some of their surrendered selections in the Rodgers’ trade — remains on the table. As such, it may put them in position to consider Corley as an option. 

The receivers group is scheduled for both measurements and workouts on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium, with Corley expected to be among those present. 

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