Mel Kiper New Mock Draft: Jets Pick Star Tight End

The New York Jets badly need help on the offensive line and at pass-catcher as they ramp up for Aaron Rodgers' return. How did they address their needs in Mel Kiper's mock draft?

This year’s NFL Draft class is filled with talent at receiver and offensive line, playing well into the New York Jets’ offseason needs. New York will likely return just two starters on its offensive line, and receiver Garrett Wilson is the only downfield target fans can feel confident in for 2024.

However, the Jets’ pick – 10th overall – is only as good as the prospects that make it there. A run on tackles or receivers could make general manager Joe Douglas’ decision for him.

In his recent mock draft, Mel Kiper took a stab at projecting how New York might approach a first round with three receivers and two tackles taken in the first nine picks.

Georgia tight end Brock Bowers (19) is tackled by Tennessee linebacker Aaron Beasley (6) during a football game between Tennessee and Georgia at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023 :: © Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

At No. 10, the Jets select Georgia Bulldogs tight end Brock Bowers.

Bowers is the consensus best tight end in this year’s class, and arguably the best prospect at his position in some time. The “generational” tag gets thrown around too often and certainly doesn’t guarantee success (see Pitts, Kyle), but Bowers’ track record and tape are both emblematic of a top-15 pick.

Bowers is exceptionally versatile. While he’ll make his money as a big slot, he should see plenty of time as an in-line tight end and will be flexed out wide on occasion. Georgia made it a point to get the ball in his hands – even through pre-line of scrimmage touches normally reserved for receivers – to take advantage of his incredible after-the-catch skills.

Simply put, he’s a playmaker. He’s also a strong blocker, adding to the offense’s ability to disguise its attentions. There are some concerns about him retaining this acumen without elite size (he may weigh in under 240 pounds), but there’s more than enough to be functional.

“Think about it: Aaron Rodgers is returning, they have a void at the position and they might jump at the opportunity to add a pass-catching tight end with rare run-after-the-catch ability. That’s a natural fit,” Kiper wrote. “And yes, New York has a bigger hole at offensive tackle, but what if it doesn’t totally love its options here?”

Tight end Tyler Conklin may be miffed by Kiper’s comments; he was far from the biggest problem on the Jets’ offense. Even so, Kiper has a point. The traditional tight end spot may be filled, but dynamic talents over the middle of the field are something they lack.

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Personally, it’s hard to pass on Penn State tackle Olu Fashanu, who went 14th in this mock draft. But Bowers promises to provide enough highlights to help forget about the team’s glaring holes in pass protection.

Ultimately, New York is going to do what they feel best equips Rodgers to take this team as far as his 40-year-old arm can. Taking an electric pass catcher and a perennial mismatch is an adequate step forward.

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