2011 NFL Draft: Predictions For Jets First Round Pick

The 2011 NFL Draft is quickly approaching which means that football analysts from all across the country are starting to post their mock drafts.  Lets take a look at some of the predictions for the New York Jets first round pick.

Steve Wyche- NFL.com : Justin Houston OLB Georgia

Brent Sobleski- TFY: Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple

Rob Rang- NFLDraftScout.com: Phil Taylor DT Baylor

Chad Reuter- NFLDraftScout.com:  Leonard Hankerson WR Miami

Matt Bitonti- DraftDaddy.com: Cameron Heyward DE Ohio State

WalterFootball.com: Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple

Don Banks – SI.com: Phil Taylor DT Baylor

Pat Kirwan- NFL.com: Akeem Ayers OLB UCLA

Charles Davis- NFL.com: Rahim Moore S UCLA

While all of these predictions are subject to change as the draft approaches, it is evident that most of the analysts feel that upgrading the pass rush will be the Jets number one priority.  I tend to agree with this assessment as Gang Green is in desperate need of an explosive player that can get to the quarterback.

At the same time drafting a player like wide receiver Leonard Hankerson makes sense if the Jets are unable to re-sign both Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes.  This is where the uncertainty around the new CBA really hurts Gang Green.  The inability to sign or re-sign free agents leaves so many question marks for the Jets, especially considering that the team has approximately 17 players set to test the market.   It will be interesting to see how this all plays out if there is any type of lockout.

Tyson Rauch

See Full Bio