Jabrill Peppers – Linebacker – Michigan
Jabrill Peppers is legitimately ridiculous, in the best way imaginable. Think Arizona Cardinals hybrid safety/linebacker Deone Bucannon, but even faster and more explosive.It’s hard to find a single spot for Peppers, as he’s played linebacker, safety, cornerback, running back and kick/punt returner in 2016. But he’s excelled everywhere – check out the following numbers:
Defensive Stats (LB, S, CB) – 59 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks
Rushing Stats (RB) – 163 yards, 7.1 yards/carry, 3 TD
Returning Stats (KR, PR) – 15.3 yards/punt return, 1 TD, 24 yards/kick return
That sort of versatility is something the Jets defense has been lacking for some time. Some would argue that the Jets already filled that void with 2016 first-round pick Darron Lee, but Maccagnan has always preached a “Free Agents for need & Draft for talent” approach towards building his roster, and Peppers is as talented as anyone.
The possible pairing of Lee and Peppers should be mouth-watering for any Jets fan, even if that means the possible moving-on from long-time middle linebacker David Harris. Harris’ age is starting to catch up to him, especially in coverage – a problem Peppers would fix immediately.
