The New York Jets have made significant changes this offseason, parting ways with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers and bringing in a new coaching staff and general manager. As the team prepares for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, they are faced with several obvious needs including a right tackle, pass-catchers, and help on the defensive line. However, there are some players that the Jets should avoid selecting in the first round, as they may not be the best fits for the team’s current roster and needs.
One player the Jets should steer clear of in the first round is LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell. While Campbell has been projected to go in the top five picks in some mock drafts, there are scenarios where he could fall to the Jets at No. 7. However, his arm length has raised concerns about his potential to play tackle in the NFL, and the Jets are in a better position at the guard position. Instead, the team should focus on landing a true tackle like Armand Membou or Josh Simmons who could fill the immediate need at right tackle.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders out of Colorado is another player the Jets should think twice about selecting in the first round. While Sanders may have impressive stats in college and a notable football lineage, the Jets recently signed Justin Fields to a significant contract in free agency. It would be more prudent for the team to see how Fields performs in his first season with the Jets before considering another quarterback. With more pressing needs on the roster, Sanders could be considered an unnecessary luxury pick for the team.
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is another talented player that the Jets should avoid targeting in the first round. With players like Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Isaiah Davis already on the roster, the running back position is not a top priority for the Jets. While Jeanty may be a valuable asset to any team, the Jets would be better served by focusing their resources on addressing areas of greater need, such as offensive and defensive line positions.
Georgia safety Malaki Starks is another player that the Jets should think twice about selecting in the first round. While Starks is a talented player, the team has more pressing needs than safety at this time. With Andre Cisco already brought in at free safety, the Jets may not have a perfect positional fit for Starks. It would be wiser for the team to focus on addressing needs on the offensive or defensive line with their first-round pick and consider finding a strong safety later in the draft who may be a more natural fit for their roster.
In conclusion, as the New York Jets gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, they must carefully consider their options and prioritize selecting players who can address their most immediate needs. While there may be talented prospects available in the first round, the team should avoid players like Will Campbell, Shedeur Sanders, Ashton Jeanty, and Malaki Starks who may not be the best fits for their current roster and needs. By focusing on players who can make immediate impacts in areas of need such as the offensive and defensive line, the Jets can position themselves for a more successful future in the NFL.