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Why the Jets should not draft a QB in the first round-By Hector Cintron for Football Reporters Online

Why the Jets should not draft a QB in the first round


The NFL draft is only a few days away and the topic of conversation around New York office water coolers seems to be centered on the New York Jets Quarterback situation. Despite the fact that their new Head Coach Rex Ryan is pro defense, the quarterback position is in dire need of an upgrade.

Right now the battle is between Kellen Clemens and Brett Ratliff. Clemens seems to be the early favorite due to his starting experience. However, he does not have a lock on the position. Ratliff is a bit raw but does have talent. Also in the mix is 2008 draft pick Erik Ainge, who will not get as many reps as the other two but will be given a chance. The starting position was left vacant by the retirement of Brett Farve in February. Most teams would have gone after a veteran back-up such as Jeff Garcia (signed with Oak), or Byron Leftwich (TB) but that is no longer an option. Now the only decent veteran options are Brad Johnson (Dal) and Gus Frerotte (Min).

Should they decide to draft a quarterback in the first round, this year’s draft has a few studs in Matthew Stafford (Georgia), Mark Sanchez (USC), and Josh Freeman (Kansas State). Stafford should be gone before the Jets pick (17) but a trade is a possibility for Sanchez. Freeman who at 6’6” is considered by many the best all around athlete of the three, may slip and will be very tempting. However the Jets are a team built for now, especially with the Defensive acquisitions made this off-season. Bringing in a rookie quarterback does not make any sense as it would just diminish the confidence of Clemens.

Overshadowed by the quarterback talk is a need for a number one receiver. With the departure of Laveranues Coles to the Cincinnati Bengals, the Jets are left without a clear cut number one guy. Jerricho Cotchery and Chansi Stuckey are good receivers, but do you really believe they put fear into any defense? Wide receiver prospects are at a premium this season with Jeremy Maclin (Missouri), Darrius Heyward-Bey (Maryland), Brian Robiskie (USC), Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina), and Florida’s Percy Harvin available. Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech) who may fall due to injury concerns is also a possibility. Maclin is a speed burner, who had 55 first down catches last year. Robiskie is 6’3” with good hands, and is not afraid of getting physical. Heyward-Bey is 6’2” with outstanding leaping ability, which complements his versatility on the field. Harvin is fast but has had knee problems. His lack of size 5’11” is overlooked due to his aggressive nature and willingness to play hurt.

There are also trade possibilities as Braylon Edwards (CLE), and Anquan Boldin (ARZ) may be available before draft day. However they may cost a small fortune. Although Edwards has a tendency to drop passes, and Boldin is not necessarily a team player they both are viable options. Not to be forgotten are Brad Smith and David Clowney who are decent talents with potential, but need more work.

The Jets also have other concerns that need to be addressed. Depths at positions like Running back and Offensive Line have to be addressed. Leon Washington is coming off his best season. However with Thomas Jones turning 30, this has to be a concern. The starting offensive line is set, but they need to add an established veteran back-up to stabilize the back end.

Although the team’s needs seem to favor the Offense, the prognosis is that the Jets may continue to add depth to the defense first. If (Ohio State-LB) James Laurinaitis is available, look for him to be taken early. If not (Tennessee-DE) Robert Ayers, or (LSU–DE) Tyson Jackson are also possibilities. Whatever the Jets decide to do, it makes no sense for them to take a quarterback in the first round.
 

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