Wide receiver has become a premium position of need for the Jets in recent years, as they have lacked a true No. 1.
With Robby Anderson and Quincy Enunwa back and the additions of Jamison Crowder and Josh Bellamy, there is still room in the Jets wide receiver corps for some depth, which is why drafting a wide receiver or two is likely.
Let’s take a look at four wide receivers for the Jets to consider this weekend,
Terry McLaurin, Ohio State
Terry McLaurin is a prospect that has risen since his performance at the Senior Bowl in January. The Jets have been noticeably keeping tabs on him.
McLaurin is an excellent route runner who is faster than he is quick, but still gets by with his physicality. His clean route tree and ability to consistently beat man-to-man coverage make him a projected No. 2 WR in the NFL who will be a better pro than college player.
Mecole Hardman, Georgia
Mecole Hardman is a very raw talent, but he has an exceptional burst of speed, running a 4.33 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Hardman’s playmaking ability after the catch and threat in the return game make him a Day 2 option, as speed has proven to kill in today’s game.
Hardman is one of the most electric weapons in the NFL draft class. His speed and elusiveness make him a highly touted prospect who could be an asset for Adam Gase’s offense.
Hakeem Butler, Iowa State
Hakeem Butler is one of the better wide receivers in this draft class but could fall into the Jets’ lap in Round 3.
Butler has outstanding size and speed, running a 4.48 40-yard dash while standing at 6-foot-5. He has unique play strength and is good with the ball in his hands after the catch. However, he will need to polish his route running abilities at the next level.
In a vertical offense, Butler would be a natural fit, so he is going to need to develop into an eventual starting X-receiver.
Diontae Johnson, Toledo
Diontae Johnson is a wide receiver the Jets have done extensive homework on.
Johnson may lack size, standing at 5-foot-10, but he has the ability to play inside or outside thanks to his speed. Johnson has the flare to be a playmaking wide receiver, but his route-running and physicality are going to get tested at the next level.
Projecting as a slot receiver at the next level, Johnson can come in and develop under Crowder, but still has the ability to be pushed outside if need be.
