Jaylon Smith, OLB-Notre Dame
Jaylon Smith is coveted by nearly every NFL team, so, if he were to drop to the Jets, everyone would deem it a major coup for Maccagnan. He’s the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Unfortunately, that rainbow will probably end by the 10th pick of the draft.
Although, like I said, a man can dream!
When describing what Smith brings to the table, it’s probably better to point out what he can’t do rather than what he can. Why? Well, he’s the next Derrick Johnson. The 2016 Butkus Award winner (given to the best LB in the nation) stands 6-3 and weighs 240 pounds, just like the Chiefs team leader and linebacker.
Yes, he tore his MCL and ACL, which he is currently recovering from, but the upside is unmistakable. He’s built like a brick wall, and plays defense like one too. No one gets past him.
What makes him a perfect fit for the Jets is his ability to play in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme, an all-important trait in Todd Bowles‘ creative defensive schemes.
Smith, along with UCLA linebacker Myles Jack, will likely be gone by the time the Jets draft in the first round, but it’s safe to say that my fingers will be crossed for the next two months.
