New York Jets Draft Reaction: Trade Down to Select Alabama Wide Receiver ArDarius Stewart
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver ArDarius Stewart (13) before the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Maccagnan and the New York Jets traded down and selected wide receiver ArDarius Stewart in the third round of the NFL Draft.

After selecting Florida safety Marcus Maye in the second round, the New York Jets made a trade with the Minnesota Vikings. The Jets moved from selection 70 down nine spots to obtain an additional fifth round pick.

The Vikings selected Ohio State center, Pat Elflein. Elflein seemed like an obvious replacement for the recently departed Nick Mangold, but it was not to be. 

Elflein was a late bloomer for the Buckeyes but became a versatile offensive lineman. He was able to fill the three interior line positions throughout his college career.

With the third round pick, the Jets selected ArDarius Stewart from Alabama. Stewart brings a physical presence to the position and his ability to gain yards after the catch may help him step in day one.

The Jets came into the draft looking for a replacement for Brandon Marshall who moved across the hall at MetLife Stadium to join the New York Giants. Stewart could certainly fill this role. He compiled 800-plus yards and 8 scores while playing the role of security blanket for the freshman, Jalen Hurts.

Stewart may have the inconvenience of playing with another inexperienced signal-caller if Christian Hackenberg wins a quarterback competition that may be inevitable. Developing a chemistry with a very young wide receiving corp will be key for Hackenberg.

The Jets still have five picks remaining in the 2017 NFL Draft with the addition of the fifth round pick. Quarterback is a position that Mike Maccagnan may still explore, so it will be interesting to see how the rest of the draft plays out.

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