The beauty of this year’s NFL draft for the New York Jets is the organization’s limitless flexibility.
Owning nine total picks, including four in the top 44 and two in the top 16, Gang Green has a flurry of premium assets. It gives them the ability to maneuver the draft board in a variety of ways.
Speaking to the media in Arizona at the NFL’s annual owners meetings, Jets general manager Darren Mougey made it clear that the team is keeping its options open, especially with the No. 2 pick.
“We are always open. We will always pick up the phone,” Mougey responded when asked if the team is open to trading back from the No. 2 pick.
If the Jets stick at No. 2 overall, they are widely expected to take Ohio State edge defender Arvell Reese, and it makes a lot of sense.
The 20-year-old Ohio State product plays with unmatched strength and unique athleticism at 6-foot-4 and 241 pounds. Already a dominant player for the Buckeyes, Reese still has so much room to grow at the next level.
However, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah reported that the Jets could potentially explore a different Buckeye in that spot, wide receiver Carnell Tate, who profiles as a perfect complement to Garrett Wilson.
The Jets are wise to keep their options open at No. 2 and throughout the entirety of the draft. While a lucrative offer to trade down may seem unlikely right now, it cannot be ruled out, especially after Mougey’s comments.