New York Jets Draft – Day 1 Recap

The New York Jets had the third overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and had a few decisions to make.  Luckily none of those decisions revolved around a quarterback, as they feel they have their guy in Sam Darnold.  The Jets have a few needs, mostly on defense, and realistically they could have picked between two or three guys.

The three “top prospects” staring them in the face were Quinnen Williams (DT) – Alabama, Ed Oliver (DT) – Houston and Josh Allen (DE) – Kentucky.  The Jets went with who they thought would best fit their scheme and took Quinnen Williams.

Whether it be the question marks surrounding Josh Allen on the field (small hands, not overpowering) or the question marks surrounding Ed Oliver off the field (character issues) the Jets went with the player who had the least number of question marks in Quinnen Williams.

The young man is an impressive specimen and many project him to be the best overall player in the draft.  The Jets didn’t overthink it or try to get too cute with this pick, and they hit an absolute home run with Williams.  Of course everything is subjective and Williams may turn out to be a bust, but his tape from Alabama is extremely impressive.

The most impressive part about Williams is his ability to play anywhere on the field and his unique blend of speed and power.  He isn’t a prototypical DT where he just stuffs the run, like a Dexter Lawrence (who was chosen by the Giants at 17).  He can rush the passer from any of the gaps on the line AND has ridiculous lateral quickness to get down the line on running plays.

Overall, the Jets knocked it out of the park and did a fantastic job of taking the best player available.  Quinnen Williams has great technique, exceptional power that will only enhance and speed that he shouldn’t have as a 300 LB DL.  Have you ever seen a man that big run a 4.83 40 time?

Grade – A