So now that the draft has finally concluded, I'm pretty happy with how things worked out for us. Overall through the draft and free agency we have addressed many of our defensive needs: DL- Jenkins can really anchor our defense and really improve the play of Ellis and Coleman by demanding extra blocking attention. LB-Harris will be a pro bowler next year, if he plays up to his potential, and the additions of Pace and Gholston along with (a now under pressure to perform) B THomas could provide a scary pass rush CB- The 3rd round pick Lowery could be a starter, and with Justin Miller and David Barrett and even maybe Poteat we will have a solid 2nd CB There are also still some major needs for our defensive transformation to be considered complete Most importantly: SS- The safety need opposite Rhodes hasn't really been addressed and I dont know if Elam or Smith will be solid starters. ILB- As previously stated Harris is a pro bowl talent, But an upgrade of Barton on the interior is sorely needed. DE- The 3-4 is successful when the front 3 dominate the line of scrimmage, that's why I'm suprised the Jets didnt go for a bigger DE in the later rounds. If at worst for depth, but Ellis is not really a 3-4 DE. I think these needs could be addressed through Rookie FA signings and possible trades...Baker?? I just wanted to see who you could see the Jets picking up before camp?? Either through a trade or FA Signing.
So did I, but they might be able to move him for a decent ILB still. Or I was thinking about a possible Bryan Thomas trade?
i agree with everything you said...but i think we can address those areas next year. dont forget theres always trades goin on in pre-season,,id expect baker gone by then.
I agree, someone said elsewhere when healthy he can be very affective and is a solid starter. Having these play makers around him can only help more.
Not sure where the Ellis is not a 3-4 DE stuff began but apparently it spreads like an invasive weed species. Ellis was hand-picked to play 3-4 DE by Parcells and Groh, who've always run 3-4 defenses. He played and excelled at 3-4 DE as a rookie before the position experimentation began. His measurables/numbers are down in recent years but that is part of the defensive scheme and also, IMO, an indicator of the lack of quality strong-side OLB and undersized NT that he's played alongside.
We can get by with Eric Barton, but I agree about the defensive line, I wanted Dre Moore but overall I'm okay with our draft.
