Jets Draft Approach Bodes Well for These Five Players

While Jets fans were busy celebrating what appears to be one of the team’s best ever draft classes (Yes, we know, on paper), there were surely a few Jets players celebrating for different reasons.

In looking over the Jets selections, it’s clear that they either had a great deal of confidence in some players who may not be household names, but could be significant contributors in the upcoming season.  Which players are we referring to?

DB Jason Pinnock: Drafted as a cornerback out of Pittsburgh, Pinnock didn’t see much of the field until later in the season.  When he finally saw some action, it was at safety where he started two games and looked surprisingly comfortable.  With very little experience at the position on the roster, some expected the Jets to take a safety in the draft, which they did not.  If Pinnock continues to grow at the position, the 2021 draft class will look that much better.

S Will Parks: The Jets added Parks, a six-year veteran, as the season came to a close.  In three games (2 starts), Parks played well enough for the Jets to bring him back this season.  And while it may “only” be voluntary workouts, Parks was voted leader of the DB group by teammates.  Pretty impressive for a guy who has only been with the team for a few weeks of regular season football.

My guys voted me leader of the group! No better feeling! Glory to God! I only been with organization a total of 4 weeks including last season! More work to do! #TakeFlight

— William (@PhillyWill11) April 21, 2022

DL Jonathan Marshall: The interior defensive line is another spot where many expected the Jets to add a body with a draft choice as Sheldon Rankins has just one year left on his deal and there’s little depth in place.  As it turns out, the Jets didn’t take a DT which bodes well for Marshall.  A player whose athleticism jumped out on game days in college, he’ll surely be hoping to make the leap from end of the bench to the regular rotation.

Jets rookie D-lineman Jonathan Marshall does as nice job of getting back in to position to make the tackle near the LOS after being moved off of his spot by the double team. Not a bad game for the rookie in a season-high 29 snaps. pic.twitter.com/Xw08DMV0DK

— Glenn Naughton (@JNRadio_Glenn) December 24, 2021

LB Quincy Williams: Williams delivered his fair share of highlight reel hits in 2021 and his return in some capacity was welcomed with open arms by Jets fans.  However, there were some questions as to whether or not the team would add a starting linebacker via the draft to get more consistent play at the position.  It turns out the Jets are just fine with Quincy for the time being.

LT Mekhi Becton: It feels silly to even mention Becton here, but some actually thought there was a chance the Jets had given up on the former 11th overall pick after just two seasons.  Surprise!  They haven’t.  Becton is still very much a part of the Jets plans and they showed that in passing on multiple premium tackles early on.

Glenn Naughton

Glenn was Born in the Bronx, New York and has followed the Jets religiously despite being stationed in several different countries and time zones around the world. He now resides in England and has been a JetNation member since 2005. Glenn will bleed green with the rest of us through the highs and lows.

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