The New York Jets feel like a franchise that is beginning from scratch. They have a new GM, a new head coach, a new QB and really an entirely different identity entering this Thursday's draft. With pick #7 the new regime gets to show gang green fans right away what this team will be all about and the direction it plans to head in.
Most draft experts are tabbing the Jets with an offensive lineman. That is the safe route to go and it's a need the Jets will need to fix in the short term, but there are also other things to consider. The Jets brought in Aaron Glenn, a defensive minded head coach, and he has stated he wants a defensive minded team. That alone could give all the offensive lineman talk some pause because Glenn might want to build the defense first.
Keep in mind the Jets also will be without their star LB on the inside this season with CJ Mosley after he was released by the team. That now leaves a glaring hole in the middle. A name to watch is Jihaad Campbell. Campbell comes from an elite program at Alabama and can play the middle right away. If somehow Abdul Carter or Mason Graham fall, the Jets would scoop either player up as well.
If the Jets do stay the course and look to offensive line, the conscious seems to be that Armand Membou will be the pick. The right tackle from Missouri has scouts raving about his fast feet and how quick he is, rather than a bulking sized tackle. For many insiders Will Campbell is the surest fire first rounder in the draft. He is solid and steady, which are words that you want associated with offensive lineman and although he is a pass protector first, the Jets want look to the safe route here.
The Jets are still being rumored to be looking at Sanders at QB and have been linked to RB as well, but it seems like it will be linebacker for Glenn or offensive tackle in this first round, while they can address their other needs later.