Pro Football Focus released a new mock draft as the NFL Scouting Combine got underway this week.
In this mock draft, PFF has the Jets taking Alabama OL Jedrick Wills Jr. with the 11th pick. With prospects Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb and Andrew Thomas already off the board, the Jets elect to take Wills over Tristan Wirfs and Mekhi Becton, both, who tested excellently at the scouting combine on Friday.
Instead of taking a plug-and-play left tackle, the Jets opt for versatility. Here’s PFF’s explanation for the selection:
While Thomas ranks first among offensive tackles on PFF’s latest big board, Wills is right behind him at No. 9 overall and No. 2 among tackles. The former Alabama standout is expected to blow up the Combine from a testing standpoint considering his sheer athleticism and foot speed. Wills also recorded a 90.1 PFF run-blocking grade in the SEC this past season, a remarkable figure for a underclassman.
Since the start of the draft process, Wills has been working on his versatility and trying to show NFL teams that he can also play the left side at the next level. When Joe Douglas spoke with reporters at the combine, he mentioned that versatility would be a big factor when New York evaluates its options on the offensive line before April’s draft.
“Trying to do both because I know that’s something that teams have questions about,” Wills said. “Just trying to have that versatility. It’s something that’s new. Any time at a new position, there’s going to be a new feeling, but it’s something I’m trying to be comfortable with.”
Given the state of the Jets offensive line, Wills could start at both tackle positions depending on how the current Jets regime feels about Chuma Edoga, a player Douglas did not draft. Still, versatility is a trait the Jets are seeking out as they attempt to restructure the offensive line.
Wills is viewed as a potential top-five pick in the draft and arguably the best offensive lineman. It would be a surprise if Wills is on the board when the Jets make their selection, but if he is, this pick not only benefits Sam Darnold’s development, but it aids Le’Veon Bell as well.
Wills’ run-blocking grade should be something that intrigues the Jets. The team failed to adequately block and create running holes for Bell in 2019, which caused the All-Pro back to hit statistical lows in his first season in green and white.
