The New York Jets made moves to address various needs in the 2024 NFL Draft, yet the ultimate success of general manager Joe Douglas‘ selections remains to be seen.
Over the course of the three-day draft, the Jets secured seven players, and below are my assessments of each pick.
Here are my initial impressions following the Jets’ draft:
Pick 1 (R1 – No. 11 overall)
Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Grade: B-
Trading down just one spot, the Jets secured one of the premier offensive tackle prospects. While there’s a clear need for depth behind two aging starting offensive tackles, some argue that a ready-to-go pass-catcher might have been a better fit. However, if Fashanu develops into a cornerstone left tackle, this grade could easily rise to an “A.”
Pick 2 (R3 — No. 65 overall)
Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky
Grade: B-
In a strategic move, the Jets moved up seven spots in the third round to secure Corley. He brings a tough secondary receiving option with impressive run-after-catch skills, although some feel he may have been slightly overdrafted and needs to prove himself against tougher competition.
Pick 3 (R4 — No. 134 overall)
Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin
Grade: B+
Addressing the RB2 position late in the fourth round, the Jets selected Allen, a powerful back from the Big Ten. With his ability to excel in pass protection situations, Allen could prove to be a valuable addition to the backfield.
Pick 4 (R5 — No. 171 overall)
Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State
Grade: C+
Travis, despite a season-ending injury in 2023, showed promise as a quarterback during his tenure at Florida State. However, concerns linger about his arm strength at the professional level.
Pick 5 (R5 — No. 173 overall)
Isaiah Davis, RB, South Dakota State
Grade: C-
Not the top-rated FCS running back, Davis faces competition from fellow draft pick Abanikanda for a spot on the depth chart, primarily due to his pass protection skills.
Pick 6 (R5 — No. 176 overall)
Qwan’tez Stiggers, CB, Toronto Argonauts
Grade: B
Adding depth to the cornerback position, Stiggers’ resilience throughout his career makes him a promising addition to the roster.
