News Jets Team Notes

[New York Jets]

Two paths appear: New York Jets tried to sign safety Talanoa Hufanga

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Talanoa Hufanga, Andre Cisco and what might have been

Read enough quotes from general managers and eventually you’ll come across a tried and true turn of phrase: “It isn’t just the moves that we did make, but also the ones that we didn’t.” While the exact verbiage varies, the general sentiment persists through the years.

For the New York Jets, one of the moves that they did make this offseason was signing safety Andre Cisco (formerly of the Jacksonville Jaguars).

According to a report by Sam Robinson of Profootball Rumors, one that they tried to make and failed to pull off was the signing of safety Talanoa Hufanga.

The #Jets made an effort to pry Talanoa Hufanga from the #Broncos after the former All-Pro had agreed to Denver terms. Pitting Darren Mougey against ex-boss George Paton, the Day 1 free agency duel led to the Jets going another way at safety https://t.co/QLHkeo5gsH

— Pro Football Rumors (@pfrumors) March 20, 2025​

The article provides further information on the move, stating that the Jets aggressively tried to lure Hufanga from the Denver Broncos after the player and Denver had agreed to a deal during the legal tampering period. For seasoned Jets fans, this sounds much like the situation that occurred between the Jets, linebacker Anthony Barr, and the Minnesota Vikings. The key difference between those situations being that Barr opted to change his commitment while Hufanga didn’t (and a key similarity being that the Jets ended up without the player each time).

While I can’t be certain, I would imagine that the signing of Hufanga would have lessened the chances of the Jets signing Cisco. Perhaps any success that Cisco has on the Jets was only made possible because the Jets didn’t sign Hufanga. It’s entirely possible that we look back on this outcome quite favorably if the Andre Cisco lottery ticket winds up panning out, regardless of how Hufanga’s career progresses.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ty-talanoa-hufanga-andre-cisco-denver-broncos

 

[New York Jets]

Tyler Conklin agrees to terms with Los Angeles Chargers

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Conklin spent the previous three season in a Jets uniform.

The Jets are in the market for a new starting tight end. Tyler Conklin has agreed to a one year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers per his agent.

Congrats Tyler Conklin agreeing to a 1 year deal with the @chargers @T_Conk1

— Mike McCartney (@MikeMcCartney7) March 21, 2025​

Conklin signed a three year contract with the Jets in 2022 coming from the Minnesota Vikings. He was one of two free agent tight ends to get a lucrative deal from the Jets that offseason along with CJ Uzomah. Uzomah provided the Jets with little value during his time with the team, while Conklin earned the starting tight end role.

While Conklin wasn’t much of a blocker or a big play threat, he was at least a reliable checkdown target. He was an upgrade over the likes of previous Jets tight ends such as Ryan Griffin.

Conklin’s departure was expected. I wouldn’t say it’s devastating. Conklin was a role player in a subpar passing attack. Still, his departure leaves a hole. Jeremy Ruckert hasn’t shown himself up to being a number one tight end so the solution will likely need to come from outside the organization.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...lin-agrees-to-terms-with-los-angeles-chargers

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Revamp Offense In TC’s 7-Round Mock Draft 1.0

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

A depleted Jets offense gets a makeover

Most NFL mock drafts are a shot in the dark. However, with most of NFL free agency behind us, we can start to have an idea of what kind of direction the New York Jets will be going in as they prepare for the 2025 NFL draft. With that in mind, this will be my first of multiple mock drafts for the Jets for GGN. I’ll try to be as reasonable as possible in my selections and trade decisions, and will be going in-depth to explain why I’ve selected the chosen player in each round.

NY Jets Mock Draft 1.0​

Round 1, Pick 07: Armand Membou, OT - Missouri​

The first pick for the Jets has been all over the board. Some believe the Jets will select a tight end, while others believe it could be a wide receiver. However, I believe that Aaron Glenn will be looking to build around the offense in the most important unit - the offensive line.

In that regard, some may see Will Campbell as the pick. However, I and most scouts believe that he’s more fit to play inside at the NFL level. On the flip side, Missouri offensive tackle Armand Membou is the perfect fit to slide into the right tackle position for the Jets after Morgan Moses’ departure.

The Mizzou prospect posted elite pass-blocking and run-blocking grades for the Tigers last year. He also has the arm length that most NFL teams look for in the tackle position. Adding Membou to the roster allows Olu Fashanu to take over at left tackle full-time, setting the cornerstone of the offensive line for the foreseeable future.

Round 2, Pick 42: Jaxson Dart, QB - Ole Miss​

To be honest, I was surprised to see Dart on the board at this pick. However, given how volatile his stock has been since the end of the college football season, it’s truly anyone’s guess as to where he’ll end up. I won’t go too in-depth in this pick, as I’ve discussed Dart extensively in a prior article.

Yes, the Jets signed Justin Fields in free agency. However, there’s no question that the team is looking for a franchise quarterback going forward. There may be a chance that Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe ends up being the choice here. But for now, we’re going to go with Dart as the potential QB of the future for New York.

Round 3, Pick 74: Xavier Restrepo, WR - Miami​

Prior to this pick, I traded the Jets’ 73rd overall selection to move back one spot, while picking up a 2026 sixth round pick (and to be honest, that could end up as a future fifth-round pick in a more realistic scenario). And with that pick, I chose Hurricanes’ wide receiver Xavier Restrepo.

I wrote in detail about why Restrepo is a realistic option for the Jets. The biggest reason why Restrepo would be a great selection for the Jets is his ability to perform on broken plays. The Miami wideout has an incredibly high football IQ, and whether it’s Fields or Dart, having a player who can get open off-script is important for the current Jets’ signal callers.

Round 4, Pick 110: Terrance Ferguson, TE - Oregon​

With Jeremy Ruckert and Stone Smartt as the only viable tight ends on the Jets’ roster, the team takes on a playmaker at the position in Terrance Ferguson. The Jets had their TE coach and co-director of player personnel at Oregon’s Pro Day to get a better look at the Ducks’ tight end.

Ferguson impressed at the NFL Combine, where he ran a 4.63 40-yard dash. While his collegiate career is underwhelming from a statistical standpoint, tight end is a position that can be a complete crapshoot. And, if the Jets like the intangibles Ferguson brings to the table, there’s a solid chance he becomes the pick at the beginning of Day 3.

Round 5, Pick 145: Elijah Roberts, DL - SMU​

Since transferring from Miami to SMU, Elijah Roberts has performed at an incredibly high level. In 2023, the SMU product had 13 sacks, producing elite defensive and pass-rushing grades. Roberts performed at a similar level in 2024, putting together 8 sacks and 60 total pressures.

In true pass sets, Roberts was elite. His 32.7 win-rate ranked seventh out of 220 qualifiers. Meanwhile in normal pass-rushing sets, he still ranked 10th among EDGE players. And on top of his regular-season accolades, Roberts also put together an impressive display at the Shrine Bowl.

Roberts is a massive EDGE prospect in this year’s draft. The Mustang measured at 6-foot-4 inches and 285 pounds at the NFL Combine, with 33 5/8 inch arms. Given that size, Roberts has the potential versatility to play both inside and outside. That’s a luxury the Jets desperately could use, considering the health of Jermaine Johnson, and the lack of run-support help from Will McDonald. The SMU EDGE has also already met with the Jets, showing that there is mutual interest there.

SMU DL Elijah Roberts tells me he had a “great” meeting with #Jets DL coach Eric Washington.

More on his meeting with the Jets, his background, and his football journey in the link below! pic.twitter.com/fHBfcCIgOC

— Justin Fried (@JustinTFried) March 18, 2025​

Round 5, Pick 162: Hollin Pierce, OT - Rutgers​

This could be the biggest steal of the draft. Hollin Pierce would be a great insurance policy in case Armand (or even Olu) doesn’t work out.

I’ve mentioned Pierce previously in an “underrated draft targets” article on GGN, so I won’t go into crazy depth. With that said, it’s hard to not root for a player like Pierce - who was once homeless and a walk-on, to becoming a four-year starter at a P4 program in college football.

Pierce impressed at the Shrine Bowl, and he has the length and strength to be a player like Tyron Smith (just hopefully not the version who played for the Jets).

Round 6, Pick 186: Upton Stout, CB - Western Kentucky​

Upton Stout may have measured at only 5-foot-8 at the NFL Combine, but he plays with similar tenacity to former Jets’ cornerback DJ Reed, with the coverage skills of Michael Carter II. Stout shows great prowess as a coverage corner, but more importantly, he’s not afraid to put his head down and make a play in the run game.

Stout performed very well at the Senior Bowl to end his final campaign at Western Kentucky.

Every Upton Stout 1-on-1 from the Senior Bowl - took like 3x as many reps as the other DBs pic.twitter.com/jBsPDNQ0vG

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) January 30, 2025​

With the Jets’ adding versatile pieces to the secondary in free agency, there could be multiple ways Stout finds himself on the field if given an opportunity. Plus, a player with the mentality of Stout would likely do well with coach Glenn.

Round 6, Pick 208: Fadil Diggs, EDGE - Syracuse​

Prior to this pick, I traded the Jets 207th overall selection to add a 2026 seventh-round pick

To be honest, there are so many players on the back-end of Day 3 in current mock drafts that could be potential players in the NFL, that it’s hard to fault anyone for their decision here. I chose to go with Fadil Diggs from Syracuse. I’ve written about him in the past as well, so I won’t try to go too deep in this blurb.

Diggs is an athletic specimen, who really performed well at the NFL Combine and at the Syracuse Pro Day.

.@CuseFootball DL Fadil Diggs clocks a speedy 4.57u ‍

: 2025 #NFLCombine on NFL Network
: Stream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/mvMvcyBCRK

— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) February 27, 2025​

At his Pro Day, Diggs hit 26 reps on the bench, which would have been tied for eighth at the NFL Combine. He also displayed quickness in the agility testing to match his strength.

However, one of the biggest assets Diggs has is his football IQ and leadership. He was taught well by coach Fran Brown, and that type of character is one the NY Jets should add to a defense that needs better accountability and leadership from their younger players.

On top of that, he could be an excellent option for the team going forward if he continues to develop as an EDGE.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...-tcs-7-round-mock-draft-1-0-armond-membou-nfl

 

[New York Jets]

Building A GGN Big Board 2025: Prospect No. 16

Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

Let’s crowd source a 2025 NFL draft big board

We have the #16 prospect on the 2025 GGN Big Board. And the winner is: Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia! With Walker taking the #16 spot, our crowd sourced Big Board now looks like this:

1. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
2. Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado
3. Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
4. Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami
5. Tyler Warren, Tight End, Penn State
6. Ashton Jeanty, Running Back, Boise State
7. Tetairoa McMillan, Wide Receiver, Arizona
8. Will Campbell, Offensive Lineman, LSU
9. Armand Membou, Offensive Tackle, Missouri
10. Will Johnson, Cornerback, Michigan
11. Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado
12. Kelvin Banks Jr, Offensive Tackle, Texas
13. Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
14. Malaki Starks, Safety, Georgia
15. Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M
16. Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia
17. ?

From now until late April I’ll be putting up a daily poll asking GGN to vote on the best available players from a rolling list of 15 candidates. The idea here is to build a generic Big Board reflecting the community’s view of this year’s draft class regardless of the Jets’ (or any other team’s) particular needs. For example, you may think the Jets don’t need a Center this year, but that should not necessarily prevent you from placing a Center high on the Big Board if said Center warrants it. Each day we will close the previous day’s poll and the candidate with the most votes will be added to the GGN Big Board. In the event of a tie vote both players will go up on the Board. By the time the draft rolls around we should have 50 players on our Big Board.

If a name you think should be on the poll is not there you can write in candidates in the comments. If a player gets support in the comments I’ll consider adding him to the poll. If a player repeatedly gets zero votes he may be dropped from the poll for a few days.

We all have different views. What we’re looking for here is a composite of the best players in the community’s collective mind. Your views may or may not coincide with the community’s, and either way that’s OK. Life here on GGN would be pretty boring if we all agreed on everything.

Let’s get to it. Today we continue with the #17 prospect on the crowd sourced GGN Big Board 2025. Who will it be? Vote early, vote often, and let’s hear who you think are the best players in this draft.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ct-no-16-jalon-walker-new-york-jets-nfl-draft

 

[New York Jets]

Report: “A lot of buzz” linking New York Jets and quarterback Jaxson Dart in NFL Draft

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Could the Jets draft their future starting quarterback this year?

The New York Jets kicked off their offseason with the relatively splashy signing of quarterback Justin Fields. However, if a recent report by Rich Cimini of ESPN is to be believed then Fields might not be the only splash that the Jets make at the position.

"The addition of Justin Fields won't preclude the #Jets from drafting a QB. If they have a strong conviction, they won't hesitate to pull the trigger at any point in the draft. There's a lot of #Jets buzz surrounding Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart."- @RichCimini

Thoughts pic.twitter.com/kRqk3kGtHq

— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) March 19, 2025​

The quote was taken from a larger article by ESPN that aggregated free agency news and rumors across the league. Related to the Jets, this one is obviously quite major, as taking Dart would be a pretty significant gamble that would tie the franchise’s future to the player for the foreseeable future.

Of note, one of the major reasons that led Fields to sign with the Jets was thought to be the opportunity to start, which is supported by the starter-level average salary that his contract provides. If we assume that assurances were made to Fields about his role, then this would set the Jets up to allow their next anointed franchise QB to learn the ropes from the bench for at least one season while Fields leads the team. Notably, their last few attempts to find a franchise quarterback (E.g., Zach Wilson, Sam Darnold, Geno Smith, and Mark Sanchez) were not given this opportunity, marking this as a departure from the franchise’s recent norms.

What do you think? Yay or nay to Jaxson Dart at pick #7?

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...rterback-jaxson-dart-in-nfl-draft-rich-cimini

 

[New York Jets]

Scouting Jets safety Andre Cisco

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Taking a look at the Jets’ new starting safety

The New York Jets signed former Jacksonville Jaguars safety Andre Cisco to a one-year contract worth up to $10 million during the first week of free agency. Today we break Cisco down in detail.

The 24-year old Cisco is listed at 6’0” and 210 pounds. He was a third round draft pick out of Syracuse in 2021. After coming off the bench in his rookie season, Cisco has been a starter for the past three years. He has racked up 229 tackles and eight interceptions in his career so far.

Background

Cisco wasn’t a highly sought-after high school recruit initially, but he then moved from the New York area to enroll at the IMG academy, where he developed into a three-star recruit and earned a scholarship to Syracuse.

He was a sensation as a freshman as his seven interceptions were tied for the NCAA lead, earning him all-ACC and all-American honors. He also added 60 tackles and 18 pass breakups.

In 2019, he followed that up with a career-high 65 tackles and another five interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, to earn all-ACC second team honors. That was despite missing three games due to injury.

His 2020 season ended prematurely after he was injured in a pre-game collision before the third game of the year and had to have season-ending surgery. However, he opted to enter the NFL draft at the end of the season even though he couldn’t participate fully in the pre-draft process.

This was expected to damage Cisco’s stock, but he was still picked early in the third round, with the 65th overall pick, by the Jaguars. He began his rookie season on the bench but started the last three games as he ended up with 26 tackles, two pass breakups and two forced fumbles.

From the start of 2022 onwards, Cisco was a full-time starter. He set career marks with 73 tackles and 10 passes defensed in 2022 and then had a career-high four interceptions in 2023.

2024 was a contract year for Cisco but he was benched late in the season, ending up with 68 tackles and seven pass breakups but only one interception. Cisco came off the bench in two games and was a healthy scratch in the season finale.

With his contact having expired at the end of the 2024 season, the Jets signed him to a one-year deal with a base value of $7.5 million and another $2.5 million in potential incentives.

Let’s move onto some more in-depth analysis of what Cisco brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.

Measurables/Athleticism

While only listed at 210 pounds, Cisco has bulked up since he first entered the league so is probably heavier than that. He has a nice wingspan and big hands, all of which help his range in center field.

While he wasn’t healthy enough to work out at the combine or his pro day, Cisco did manage 17 bench press reps, which is above average for his position.

On film, his range, quickness, change of direction and explosiveness are all apparent and he reportedly tested at between 4.3 and 4.4 for the 40-yard dash in 2020.

Usage

Cisco’s primary position has been as a deep safety although he has shown some ability to match up in the slot or come up into the box and contribute there. He will get a lot of reps as the deep centerfielder in single-high looks.

Coverage skills

Cisco’s critics may point to the fact that quarterbacks have routinely had a passer rating of over 100 when targeting him, but these numbers can be misleading with deep safeties, for whom many of those targets would have been from being the closest defender rather than in man coverage. Also, some of his interceptions and pass breakups have been on plays where he was not the defender in primary coverage.

When he does match up in a man to man situation, Cisco can allow separation due to poor route feel or anticipation, but he moves well and can stay with his man or recover well.

However, he’s at his best in center field where he can keep everything in front of him and exploit his range and closing speed.

Ball skills

Cisco’s on-ball production has been excellent, both in college and at the pro level, as he has been good at patrolling center field and reacting to, locating and going after downfield throws.

In tighter coverage situations, including in the red zone, he displays good timing and competitiveness at the catch-point.

When he does intercept passes, Cisco is a good return threat, with a pick six at both the NFL and college levels and some good return yardage numbers. However, he could have had more interceptions than he did, with his hands letting him down a few times on catchable balls.

Tackling

Cisco has been a productive and willing tackler during his career, but he has averaged around 10 missed tackles per season as a starter, so he’s not flawless.

He can be guilty of taking over-aggressive angles or running himself out of plays at times, leading to some of these issues.

Technically, he packs a punch but his footwork isn’t always faultless, forcing him to make arm tackles rather than being able to stop a runner in his tracks in the open field.

He had two forced fumbles in college and has had three in his NFL career so far.

Run defense

Cisco has played more and more reps in the box over the course of his career, becoming a more well-rounded player, and this has been reflected in increasing production as a run defender.

He looks comfortable in the box and attacks the line of scrimmage with good aggression to make plays.

Physicality

Cisco has a strong and powerful frame and is capable of unloading some big, but clean, hits in coverage and when tackling.

There are times, however, when he noticeably struggles to bring a bigger ball carrier down, allowing himself to be dragged for extra yardage.

He has had four defensive penalties in his career, of which two were unnecessary roughness calls on late hits and one was a pass interference call. He only had one defensive penalty in his entire college career.

Blitzing

Cisco hasn’t blitzed much at the NFL level and barely did it at all in college. However, he has registered pressure a few times, batted down one pass at the line and recorded 1.5 sacks.

He was called for roughing the passer once during his career.

Special teams

Cisco began his NFL career in a full-time special teams role, covering kicks and punts, rushing on the placekicking and punt return units and blocking on returns and in punt protection. His special teams role has reduced since he’s been a starter, though.

He has nine special teams tackles in his pro career so far, along with two penalties for holding on a kick return and being offside on a kickoff.

Instincts/Intelligence

Cisco is a player who is adept at sitting in center field and reacting to wayward passes or reading the quarterback’s eyes to jump routes.

However, he can be fooled by play fakes and misdirection and his over-aggressiveness can be exploited, leading to blown coverages.

On this play, he jumps the outside route, leaving the cornerback with no deep safety help. It should have been a touchdown but the Jaguars got lucky when the pass was underthrown. You can see the cornerback’s frustration being directed at Cisco at the end of the play.

This wasn’t a one-off incident, as Cisco was involved in a number of blown coverages last season, some of which led to big plays. This is cited as the main reason that he lost some reps down the stretch. However, blown coverages are always difficult to assess because there is often more than one person at fault and it’s not uncommon for them to arise more frequently on a struggling team where communication is perhaps not good.

Cisco’s other primary issue has been that he can get caught up in traffic when covering crossing routes.

In college, Cisco was a four-time member of the Syracuse Athletic Director’s honor roll and a two-time ACC honor roll member.

Attitude

Cisco is a player whose Jacksonville teammate Tyson Campbell described as “a born leader” and said he acted like a pro from the start despite being one of the youngest starters on the Jags’ defense.

He’s a dedicated player who is constantly looking to improve, apparently doing a deep dive at the end of each season to determine where he can make adjustments to his game to mitigate weaknesses.

There was one controversial moment last year when he made comments that there was “a lot of quit” from the defensive unit during the game they had just lost. Online speculation linked this to a particular play where linebacker Devin Lloyd was loafing rather than hustling back to assist him on a tackle, but head coach Doug Pederson downplayed this and said he didn’t consider it to constitute direct finger pointing.

Injuries

Cisco’s college career was cut short in a freak accident where a teammate collided with him during pre-game warmups, causing him to suffer a torn ACL. Prior to that, he just had missed three games due to a lower leg injury in the previous season.

He was obviously able to put these issues behind him as he became an NFL starter two years later and he’s only had minor injury issues at the NFL level, missing a total of five games, one of which was as a healthy scratch. He had a shoulder injury in 2022, hamstring and groin issues in 2023 and an ankle injury in 2024.

Scheme Fit

While we don’t know exactly what the Jets’ defense will look like yet, we can assume that the Jets are directly targeting players who they know have ideal size, athleticism and skill-set profiles to fit into what they want to do. Presumably Cisco will be a deep center fielder with them, perhaps enabling Tony Adams to play closer to the line of scrimmage more often than he has in the past two seasons.

Rumor has it that the Jets also tried to get Talanoa Hufanga before settling for Cisco on a less lucrative deal. He’s also been primarily a deep safety, albeit that he’s played a higher percentage of his snaps in the box. That may suggest that the Jets have more of a well-rounded role in mind for Cisco.

Conclusions

Cisco is an excellent athlete with a good skill-set and an ability to read the game along with some good leadership qualities, but he had a down year last year, so the Jets need him to bounce back and play with more consistency.

He only signed a one-year deal so there’s not much risk if it doesn’t work out, but there will be urgency to get him re-signed beyond this year if he does re-establish himself with the Jets.

Since he’s still only 24, the Jets can have legitimate hope that Cisco can build on the production he’s had so far at the NFL level and eradicate some of the negatives he’s been guilty of over the years.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/2025/3/23/24391822/scouting-new-york-jets-safety-andre-cisco

 

[New York Jets]

Jets Insider Tony Pauline releases post-free agency mock draft

Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Could the Jets take a tight end in the first round?

As I previously detailed, Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda seemingly has a pretty strong source (or set of sources) within One Jets Drive. Due to that, I personally take notice whenever Pauline speaks about the New York Jets and the rumors that he’s hearing.

The most recent comes in his post free agency mock draft, where he selected tight end Tyler Warren to land with the New York Jets at pick 7. Pauline makes clear that this is not because he has a high opinion of Warren but because of what he’s hearing, going as far as to the write the below.

I loathe making this pick considering the other options available, but everything I’ve heard points to the Jets being infatuated with Warren to the point that they are trying to set up multiple meetings with the tight end.

From my perspective, the Jets could do way worse than Warren at 7, but there likely will be better options. In Pauline’s mock draft, I would’ve personally preferred to see the Jets take Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders or Boise State running back Ashtyn Jeanty among others who were still on the board when the Jets picked in this mock draft.

What do you think? Are you hoping this rumor is true or false?

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ases-post-free-agency-mock-draft-tyler-warren

 

[New York Jets]

NY Jets: Potential UDFA’s to target post-NFL draft

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

There will be players who can contribute even though undrafted

It seems like in recent years UDFA’s have been making a bigger impact on the game at a professional level. Maybe this has something to do with many of them receiving bigger contracts than those being selected in the later rounds on Day 3 of the NFL draft. Or maybe it’s a correlation that doesn’t exist and is just a fabric of my imagination. Regardless, here I’ll be highlighting potential UDFA options for the NY Jets to grab after the end of the NFL draft.

For the purpose of this article, I’ll be using the Consensus Big Board used by the NFL Mock Draft Database website, and highlighting players who are ranked 260 or later at the time of this writing. Let’s begin.

Disclaimer: Not every player here may become a UDFA.

NY Jets: Potential UDFA Targets​

Francisco Mauigoa, Linebacker - Miami​

Francisco Mauigoa is a 6-foot-2, 233 pound inside linebacker with blazing speed. The Miami product ran a 4.60 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and he proved to be one of the more elite testers at the position.

Francisco Mauigoa is a LB prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 9.15 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 248 out of 2911 LB from 1987 to 2025.

Pro day pending for remaining tests.https://t.co/ISmNLcKEpZ pic.twitter.com/qijpv30Tbn

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) March 12, 2025​

Mauigoa is explosive in his first step, as his broad jump and 10-yard split suggest. That speed shows up on film, too. I was able to witness him perform first-hand at the Shrine Bowl, where he impressed with his performance in live drills.

Miami Hurricanes LB Francisco Mauigoa absolutely blows up this run play in live drills. #ShrineBowl pic.twitter.com/IrgAVgvGm2

— Thomas Christopher (@ThomasCP_NFL) January 26, 2025​

Mauigoa uses that speed to excel in run defense, where his 84.0 grade ranked 30th among all linebackers (min. 200 snaps). His 12.7 stop percentage ranked 14th, showcasing his strong ability in the run game.

The Miami linebacker may not be a third-down player yet, but he could be a rotational depth player on early downs if needed.

Alijah Huzzie, Cornerback - UNC​

Alijah Huzzie is an experienced prospect, playing six years of college football. He developed as an excellent cornerback for East Tennessee State, before eventually transferring to the University of North Carolina.

At UNC, Huzzie continued to show great intelligence at the cornerback position. One of his specialties is something that’s much needed in today’s NFL: disrupting routes with a crossing pattern. Whether it’s an actual crosser, or an inside dig, the Tar Heel almost has an innate ability to break up passes on crossing plays, something he did consistently at his time at UNC, and at the Shrine Bowl, too.

Screw that, this made me want to watch Alijah Huzzie. Fun watch so far. NEED MORE FILM. https://t.co/ETlxMM5Yi5 pic.twitter.com/AmZTtvzD4A

— Tyler Schoon (@tylerjschoon) February 28, 2025​

UNC CB Alijah Huzzie had a really nice day today. Had a nice interception in 1-on-1s. Finished off the day with this great rep in front of the entire team vs. Colorado’s Jimmy Horn Jr. pic.twitter.com/WLHfK8XbGA

— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) January 25, 2025​

In his final year at North Carolina, Huzzie put together a solid if unspectacular season. He excels in man coverage, and even when he’s beaten on a step, he possesses some of the best recovery speed that I’ve seen out of a cornerback.

With the type of mindset and characteristics that Huzzie has, he would make an excellent fit in the Jets’ secondary.

Personally, I’d be shocked if he became an UDFA, but as of right now, that’s where he stands in consensus rankings.

Samuel Brown Jr, Wide Receiver - Miami​

Samuel Brown may not have the same statistical profile as other receivers in this class, but there’s a lot to like from the Miami Hurricane prospect. Brown stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 200 pounds. He’s an explosive athlete, which he was able to showcase at the NFL Combine. There, he led receivers in the vertical jump, while his 1.52-second 10-yard split ranked 12th. In fact, his RAS Score ranked 39th out of 3445 wide receivers since 1987.

On film, Brown shows that he’s excellent after the catch against P4 competition (please, no YAC King references). He’s also willing to put his body on the line to make a catch.

Miami Hurricanes wide receiver Sam Brown makes a great diving catch on a low pass in live reps. #ShrineBowl pic.twitter.com/ayGWwlRzc6

— Thomas Christopher (@ThomasCP_NFL) January 26, 2025​

However, the main reason I think the Jets would be smart to go after Brown is his ability as a run-blocker. This past season, Brown’s 76.1 run-blocking grade ranked eighth among wide receivers. Considering New York’s current personnel on offense, a player that is willing to block and forego stat-padding is a great player to have in your wide receiver room.

Despite being slightly shorter, Brown reminds me of a Tim Patrick type of receiver. He will surprise you in a good way, and he isn’t afraid to do the dirty work in the run-game.

Joshua Simon, Tight End - South Carolina​

If the NY Jets decide to pass on Tyler Warren, Terrance Ferguson, and other tight ends early in the draft, South Carolina’s Joshua Simon could be an interesting player to acquire as a UDFA.

Simon put up the second-fastest 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, at 4.65 seconds. He also posted the second-highest vertical and long jump at the position, showing his explosiveness. In essence, Simon tested extremely well at the event. However, he also performed well at the Shrine Bowl - and he had two good seasons with the Gamecocks as a “Big Slot”.

South Carolina’s Joshua Simon is a physical and powerful tight end. Really flashed his NFL ability in his first season with the Gamecocks last year.

Simon’s 7.5 YAC per reception last season ranks top five among returning P4 tight ends. pic.twitter.com/ORAxTuPCt2

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) July 27, 2024​

Although he’s an older prospect and unrefined as a blocker, Simon could be an option for the Jets. He has a high IQ as a route-runner, though at times he may need to work on his hand placement on jump ball opportunities.

Considering he’s projected as an UDFA, Simon is a project piece worth taking a chance on.

Shaun Dolac, Linebacker - Buffalo​

Shaun Dolac is one of my favorite prospects in this year’s draft. I think if he went to a different school and didn’t show loyalty to Buffalo, he would be a far bigger name in this year’s draft.

Shaun Dolac is a LB prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.00 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 292 out of 2920 LB from 1987 to 2025.

Pro day testing unofficial, splits projected.https://t.co/ak9UJX7WW9 pic.twitter.com/5UD8TgRHDf

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) March 14, 2025​

Statistically speaking, he is one of the best linebackers in this draft class. He is the top-rated linebacker in defensive grade by PFF. Against the run, he ranks 10th with an 88.8 grade. He had the highest tackling grade among linebackers in 2024. He also boasted the best coverage grade with a 92.7.

Not only did Dolac grade well, but he also led the FBS with 119 tackles, while adding four sacks despite being an inside linebacker. He also holds an absurd 4.7 missed tackle rate, which is 14th-best at the position. Dolac also led the position with 69 run stops.

I don’t think I really need to continue, but the film doesn’t lie, either.

Dolac is a decisive player. He knows when to hit his gaps, he understands where the ball is moving due to his tremendous football IQ, and he has the athleticism to excel against any competition.

Textbook rep by Buffalo LB Shaun Dolac. pic.twitter.com/RG2HEwRJYV

— Colton Edwards (@coltonedwardsFB) March 16, 2025​

Dolac is a player who may not take long before he becomes a producer on any team. For the Jets, it’s hard to not want a player of this caliber, especially if he can be had for next to nothing. This would be a no-brainer - if it becomes a possibility.

Shaun Dolac vs NIU is one of the BEST games I’ve ever watched a linebacker play.

19 tackles
5 tackles for loss
1 interception
1 pass breakup
39.1 passer rating allowed

Blew up his pro day with a 4.55 40 as well. Day 3 gem who will rise on draft boards. pic.twitter.com/0qRtcSRJbC

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) March 14, 2025​

Jackson Meeks, Wide Receiver - Syracuse​

Jackson Meeks couldn’t find an opportunity at Georgia, but he quickly shined in his final year of college football playing for the Syracuse Orange. Meeks put together 910 yards on 72 receptions and had seven touchdowns. Advanced statistics show a receiver who was heavily utilized in a quick-passing attack. He displayed good prowess getting in-and-out of his breaks with strong hands at the catch point.

Didn't take long for me to discover my first Draft Crush of the cycle here at the #ShrineBowl

Syracuse WR, Jackson Meeks.

Effortless movements & sharp cuts for a thicker Wide Receiver. Attacks the ball with strong hands & not afraid to get physical in his routes. pic.twitter.com/noF3d8PiNy

— Marcus Whitman (@TFG_Football) January 25, 2025​

Standing at 6-foot-2, I clocked the Syracuse receiver with a 4.52 40-yard dash at the Syracuse Pro Day. He isn’t a burner, but he has good enough speed.

Instead, Meeks is a gritty player whose personality matches that on the field. Meeks reminds me a lot of Allen Robinson in terms of his ability to make plays in traffic.

Great grab by Syracuse Orange WR Jackson Meeks in one-on-ones. #ShrineBowl pic.twitter.com/WZmNsiu3nL

— Thomas Christopher (@ThomasCP_NFL) January 26, 2025​

While that type of career might not be a long one in terms of NFL success, it has its uses in the league. And, considering the lack of weapons the NY Jets currently have, it makes sense to take a flier on a player like Meeks.

Bryce Cabeldue, Offensive Lineman - Kansas​

Despite the NY Jets adding some players with questionable character along the offensive line, the team desperately needs to continue strengthening that unit. Adding a player like Kansas’ Bryce Cabeldue might do the trick.

Cabeldue played five years at as an offensive tackle at Kansas, playing meaningful snaps and getting better with each passing year. His final year with the Jayhawks, Cabeldue put up a 76.6 run-blocking grade with an 80.2 pass-blocking grade. However, due to his length, Cabeldue has acknowledged that he is projected as a guard in the NFL.

The Kansas offensive lineman got exclusive snaps there at the Shrine Bowl, where he showed that he can perform well despite playing a position he’s not as familiar with.

Kansas OL Bryce Cabeldue showed his versatility & technique at the Shrine Bowl!

Cabeldue showed the ability to execute, generate movement, & finish. He displayed good hand placement, swift feet, & a nasty temperament in the run game!

The guard convert's quick latch &… pic.twitter.com/lJ0T119CKE

— Noah K.M. Chang (@NoahKMChang) February 25, 2025​

On top of that, Cabeldue proved to be an athletic specimen. He put together a great 4.95 40-yard dash and did an impressive 30 reps in his bench press.

After his Big 12 Pro Day yesterday, #Kansas OL Bryce Cabeldue will finish the draft cycle as one of MOST ATHLETIC OL in the 2025 class per RAS.

He finished in the 88th-97th percentile in all but one Combine testing drill, and projecting as a guard, he’ll challenge to have the… pic.twitter.com/DjxGMJfq00

— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) March 20, 2025​

I was able to speak to Bryce personally at the Shrine Bowl, and on top of his athletic ability, he displayed an incredibly high football IQ. With his versatility and character, the Jets would be wise to take a shot on him if he manages to fall out of the draft.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...jets-potential-udfas-to-target-post-nfl-draft

 

[New York Jets]

Mailbag Questions

Leave questions for this week’s mailbag in the cleverly marked “comments” section.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/2025/3/25/24393942/mailbag-questions

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 03/26/25

SetNumber: X43759

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning Gang Green Nation! The New York teams are hurting at quarterback. The New York Giants signed Russell Wilson yesterday. Wilson will join Jameis Winston as veteran quarterback reclamation projects for the Giants. The New York Jets have a couple of veteran quarterback reclamation projects of their own in Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor. Of these four quarterbacks Justin Fields has the most potential upside, but that’s not saying much. I sure am looking forward to the day the Jets have an unquestioned young stud at quarterback. That has to happen sooner or later, right?

Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Wednesday in March:

Jack Bell - 2025 Jets Free Agency Recap - Defense

Randy Lange - S Andre Cisco Has Returned to New York Area: 'It's Such a Big Reason' He's Now a Jet

Mike Tannenbaum - 2025 NFL mock draft: Tannenbaum makes GM picks for Round 1

Nick Wojton - 2025 NFL free agency: Contract details for Jets CB Brandon Stephens

Nick Wojton - Todd McShay: Jets could still consider QB at No. 7 pick at NFL draft

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Reportedly Met With 31-TD Quarterback

Patrick McAvoy - NFL Insider Shares Update Jets' Justin Fields Will Love

Nick Ferraro - 2025 NFL Draft Preview: New York Jets

Justin Fried - NY Jets’ pre-draft meetings may have already revealed their Round 1 target

Justin Fried - Aaron Rodgers’ ex-teammate just dropped the worst Garrett Wilson take imaginable

Christopher Hennessy - New York Jets 7-round 2025 NFL mock draft, per PFF simulator

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy the day everybody.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...gey-justin-fields-tyrod-taylor-russell-wilson

 

[New York Jets]

Shedeur Sanders and not looking a gift horse in the mouth

Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

The Jets need a quarterback. Could Shedeur Sanders fit the bill?

This feels like a weird article to write. On one hand, it seems like a zero percent chance to me that quarterback Shedeur Sanders makes it to pick 7 so why even bother to write an article related to it? On the other hand, some well-respected mock drafters have him falling that far and I’ve even seen some New York Jets fans say that they wouldn’t want him if he was there. So why not discuss what they should do if he goes that far since there seems to be some debate? I mean what else is the offseason for if not for theoretical possibilities?

Let me start by making my stance clear: if Shedeur Sanders makes it to pick #7 then the New York Jets should take him. Now, let me make that stance even more clear (and a bit more colorful for emphasis): if Shedue Sanders makes it to pick $7 then there should be no hesitation and the New York Jets should sprint that card to the podium as fast as head coach Aaron Glenn is able to run.

Simply put, the opportunity to take Sanders at 7 would be a gift to a franchise that woe seems to follow like a shadow, and looking for reasons not to take Sanders would be like looking a gift horse square in the mouth. Why? Well, because the dude can simply sling a football better than just about anyone at the college ranks.

Maybe you thought that I was exaggerating in the last sentence. Based on the data, I am not.

First, we can look at the aggregate of all his “true dropbacks,” which is a filter commonly applied to quarterback stats to control for the scheme that each quarterback plays in. Sanders was as good as it got in 2024 when considering this context.

A big ole graph of PFF Pass Grades on "True" dropbacks (Straight drop backs with no RPOs/Screens/Play Action). Leading the way are the top two 2025 draft QBs (rn) Shedeur Sanders and Carson Beck #CFB #CollegeFootball pic.twitter.com/PxsP4Xx10e

— CFBNumbers (@CFBNumbers) May 1, 2024​

Next, we can look at his passes when he was able to operate in structure as these are thought to be one of the best predictors of future quarterback success. We can also gather from this tweet that Sanders wasn’t propped up by a very easy to execute system, but rather that he was doing some significant heavy lifting. Long story short, “dude was good.”

Shedeur Sanders:

81% comp on passes from a clean pocket

#1 in draft class

70% on-target rate on throws 10+ yards downfield

#2 in draft class

48% of his passes came without help via design (no play action, motion, RPO or screens on play)

#1 highest rate in draft class

on…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) March 7, 2025​

After that, we can look at passes against the best competition when they knew he was throwing. Teams knew they had to stop it and it simply didn’t matter. Again, “dude is good.”

“In the two-minute drill, Sanders holds a 92.3 career passing grade against Power Four competition—the highest of all time” stat per @PFF

Why is this significant? @923TheFan is the official radio home of the #Browns… destiny ️ @KenCarman. pic.twitter.com/bEGD0XPv1I

— MoreForYouCleveland (@MoreForYou_CLE) March 20, 2025​

Maybe you want a quarterback who can throw the ball even when under pressure. Guess what? Sanders excelled at that too. Say it with me now: “dude is good.”

What makes me most confident that Shedeur Sanders can be a succesful NFL QB is his ability to deal under pressure

Best QB in the class in that regard

That translates https://t.co/80DZOoUT3o pic.twitter.com/CocxvEMfs0

— Marshall Green (@MarshallGreen_) March 20, 2025​

Last, we can look at it on a route-by-route basis and we can pretty clearly see that there isn’t a route in the playbook that he can’t execute. For the sake of simplicity, in the below chart just default to green arrow is “great,” yellow arrow is “okay,” and red arrow is “bad.” The 2024 chart? Not a lick of red to be found and there’s barely any yellow. Does “dude is good” even do this justice anymore?

Shedeur Sanders' profile is live at @RecepPerception.

He's insanely accurate. And what gets lost in the shuffle of the high volume of short-game discourse that we have is that he also threw 15% of his throws over 20 yards, more than Ward.

full profile here:… pic.twitter.com/xBl4BlQLYq

— Cory (@fakecorykinnan) March 20, 2025​

And, look, for those who are Sanders detractors, I get it. He can come off as brash. He could stand to navigate the pocket better. Personally, I wish he wasn’t a turtle as a runner. However, if a coaching staff can’t operate a good offense with a quarterback who throws the ball THIS well then the root of your team’s issue is that your coaching staff isn’t good enough and you probably need a new one.

Long story short, if Shedeur Sanders is available at #7 then the hardest question that the Jets should have to answer that night is what kind of champagne to pop when celebrating. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth and take Shedeur if the opportunity presents.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ift-horse-in-the-mouth-ny-jets-nfl-draft-2025

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 03/27/25

Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning Gang Green Nation! The New York Jets finally released contract figures for 10 free agents signed this offseason. Andre Cisco received $7.5 million in guaranteed money on a one year, $8.5 million contract. Isaiah Oliver received $2.25 million in guaranteed money on a one year, $2.5 million contract. In addition, Stone Smartt, Tyler Johnson, Derrick Nnadi, Rashad Weaver, Jay Tufele, Kris Boyd, Kene Nwangwu and Jamin Davis all received one year contracts, and none received more than $550,000 in guaranteed money. In short, Andre Cisco will be a starting safety for the Jets. Isaiah Oliver has a very good chance to be a backup defensive back. As for the rest, the Jets have committed almost nothing to any of them. They will be in camp to compete for jobs, but the Jets are clearly not counting on any of them to be long term solutions. Any production the Jets receive from them will be a pleasant surprise. Many jobs are still wide open on the Jets, pending the outcome of the 2025 NFL draft.

Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Thursday in March:

Jack Bell - Notebook | Free Agents Bring Depth and Experience to Jets’ Offense

Andy Vasquez - Jets were wise to let division rival make this free agency mistake

Adan Schultz - New York Jets Reveal Justin Fields 'Commitment' In Scout's Head-Turning Mock Draft Update

Nick Faria - New York Jets Hall of Famer Darrelle Revis Unleashes Online Beef with Former Buffalo Bills Rival

Bryce Lazenby - Jets predicted to make $36 million decision on pair of young superstars

Mike Moraitis - Jets predicted to finally replace Tyler Conklin by signing $12 million tight end

Nick Wojton - NFL win totals 2025: What is the over/under for the New York Jets?

Nick Wojton - Former Jets first-round pick Mekhi Becton finds another new team

Nick Wojton - NFL Network Brian Baldinger: 'The Jets need to fix the line' at draft

Zach Pressnell - Jets Predicted To Pass On Shedeur Sanders, Select Offensive Star At Pick No. 7

Zach Pressnell - Jets Predicted To Land Superstar DT As Quinnen Williams Running Mate

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Insider Hints NY Could Cut $44 Million Playmaker

Zach Pressnell - Jets Are Perfect Landing Spot For Star Defensive Line Draft Prospect

JetsFix - Salary Cap Update: The Jets have the least cap space in the NFL

Derek Praschak - NY Jets should explore reunion with forgotten WR after his public plea

Justin Fried - Shedeur Sanders could emerge as Jets target after Giants’ QB signing

Matthew Legros - Jets 'have love' for developmental quarterback prospect as 2025 NFL Draft nears

Matthew Legros - Jets take quarterback despite $40M investment in crazy mock draft

Malik Brown - Jets rumors: How real is Jaxson Dart draft buzz?

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Enjoy the day everybody.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...o-sauce-gardner-garrett-wilson-darrelle-revis

 

[New York Jets]

The 2025 AGOP Finalists

Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Time to choose a 2025 AGOP champion

The 12th Annual Gang Green Nation Offseason Plan Contest is now in the books. We wish to thank all those who took the time and effort to engage in the complex and difficult task of thinking through an integrated plan for the 2025 New York Jets offseason, including salary cap management, trades, roster cuts and the draft. This stuff isn’t easy, and perhaps it gives everyone who participated a bit of appreciation for how difficult the GM job is. We had an unusually low number of entrants this year. Picking the finalists is never easy. We went through each entry carefully, focusing on the trades, the cap, the draft picks, and the final rosters. All of the plans presented were fascinating to read and each had unique ideas on how best to improve the Jets. In the end, we felt that this year, everyone who took the trouble of entering the contest deserved to be a finalist. Now you all get to choose which vision you like the best.

There are always things that can be improved, so if you have any suggestions as to how to make next year’s contest even better, now’s the time to speak up. Please let us know in your comments what you liked, but more importantly what you disliked about this contest. How can we make it better? What will encourage more of you to participate? Give us as much feedback as you can, and we will try our best to listen and make the necessary improvements next year.

Now, without further ado, we present the five finalists of the contest (click on each link below to see the AGOP). The entire GGN community gets to vote on the ultimate winner. Polling will remain open through 12 noon, Friday, April 4, 2025. Once the polls close the winner will be crowned and his or her winning plan will be featured on the front page of GGN. And the finalists, in no particular order, are ... (drum roll please ...):

gamerk316

GenoTime7

Hogey’s Role

ColeLikesSports

Stand Up Guy

It’s up to all of you now. Please take a look at these great entrants and choose our 2024 AGOP champion.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/2025/3/27/24395315/the-2025-agop-finalists-new-york-jets

 

[New York Jets]

Building A GGN Big Board 2025: Prospect No. 22

Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

Let’s crowd source a 2025 NFL draft big board

We have the #22 prospect on the 2025 GGN Big Board. And the winner is: Emeka Egbuka, Wide Receiver, Ohio State! With Egbuka taking the #22 spot, our crowd sourced Big Board now looks like this:

1. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
2. Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado
3. Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
4. Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami
5. Tyler Warren, Tight End, Penn State
6. Ashton Jeanty, Running Back, Boise State
7. Tetairoa McMillan, Wide Receiver, Arizona
8. Will Campbell, Offensive Lineman, LSU
9. Armand Membou, Offensive Tackle, Missouri
10. Will Johnson, Cornerback, Michigan
11. Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado
12. Kelvin Banks Jr, Offensive Tackle, Texas
13. Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
14. Malaki Starks, Safety, Georgia
15. Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M
16. Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia
17. Matthew Golden, Wide Receiver, Texas
18. Nick Emmanwori, Safety, South Carolina
19. Colston Loveland, Tight End, Michigan
20. Jaxson Dart, Quarterback, Mississippi
21. Jahdae Barron, Cornerback, Texas
22. Emeka Egbuka, Wide Receiver, Ohio State
23. ?

From now until late April I’ll be putting up a daily poll asking GGN to vote on the best available players from a rolling list of 15 candidates. The idea here is to build a generic Big Board reflecting the community’s view of this year’s draft class regardless of the Jets’ (or any other team’s) particular needs. For example, you may think the Jets don’t need a Center this year, but that should not necessarily prevent you from placing a Center high on the Big Board if said Center warrants it. Each day we will close the previous day’s poll and the candidate with the most votes will be added to the GGN Big Board. In the event of a tie vote both players will go up on the Board. By the time the draft rolls around we should have 50 players on our Big Board.

If a name you think should be on the poll is not there you can write in candidates in the comments. If a player gets support in the comments I’ll consider adding him to the poll. If a player repeatedly gets zero votes he may be dropped from the poll for a few days.

We all have different views. What we’re looking for here is a composite of the best players in the community’s collective mind. Your views may or may not coincide with the community’s, and either way that’s OK. Life here on GGN would be pretty boring if we all agreed on everything.

Let’s get to it. Today we continue with the #23 prospect on the crowd sourced GGN Big Board 2025. Who will it be? Vote early, vote often, and let’s hear who you think are the best players in this draft.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ct-no-22-emeka-egbuka-new-york-jets-nfl-draft

 

[New York Jets]

A potential round 2 steal: edge rusher Mike Green and nailing an important test

Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Could Gang Green go Green in the 2nd Round?

Not all tests are created equal. For edge rushers, one test arguably stands above the rest: the three-cone drill.

Why? Because the correlation between excelling on the three-cone drill and being a productive NFL player is quite strong. For evidence, let’s look at the list of the best three-cone drills in recent years.

"Does this work for other positions?"

Nothing quite like the top-performing OL in the 20-yard shuttle

But next best? Top 3-cone times for pass rushers

Here are the EDGE/DL drafted in the top 4 rounds who recorded a 6.89 3c or better at the NFL Combine.

From Von to Maxx Crosby pic.twitter.com/oMK08xcy9o

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) February 27, 2023​

By no means is every player on this list a star, but most of the league’s best pass rushers can be found on it, which makes it meaningful.

We recently saw another edge rusher clear the 6.89 second threshold: Mike Green of Marshall.

Mike Green's 3-cone time was outstanding. 95th percentile.

Puts him into this group https://t.co/I1cqsXEBDd pic.twitter.com/A6JcWhPjkb

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) March 25, 2025​

Admittedly, Green might be a tough player to acquire for the New York Jets. He probably won’t be the best player on the board at #7 and he might not make it to round 2. However, based on an accumulation of recent mock drafts as compiled by GrindingTheMocks, it does appear that there is a possibility that Green could make it to round 2. If he does, his three-cone drill alone might be a good enough reason to make him the pick at pick 42. Put that together with him putting together an extremely impressive 17 sacks in 2024 and you could make a strong argument that he’s the type of talent worth trading up for if need be.

What do you think? Would you take Green at 42? If so, would you be willing to trade up for him?

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...e-green-and-nailing-an-important-test-ny-jets

 

[New York Jets]

Building A GGN Big Board 2025: Prospect No. 23

Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

Let’s crowd source a 2025 NFL draft big board

We have the #23 prospect on the 2025 GGN Big Board. And the winner is: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall! With Green taking the #23 spot, our crowd sourced Big Board now looks like this:

1. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
2. Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado
3. Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
4. Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami
5. Tyler Warren, Tight End, Penn State
6. Ashton Jeanty, Running Back, Boise State
7. Tetairoa McMillan, Wide Receiver, Arizona
8. Will Campbell, Offensive Lineman, LSU
9. Armand Membou, Offensive Tackle, Missouri
10. Will Johnson, Cornerback, Michigan
11. Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado
12. Kelvin Banks Jr, Offensive Tackle, Texas
13. Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
14. Malaki Starks, Safety, Georgia
15. Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M
16. Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia
17. Matthew Golden, Wide Receiver, Texas
18. Nick Emmanwori, Safety, South Carolina
19. Colston Loveland, Tight End, Michigan
20. Jaxson Dart, Quarterback, Mississippi
21. Jahdae Barron, Cornerback, Texas
22. Emeka Egbuka, Wide Receiver, Ohio State
23. Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
24. ?

From now until late April I’ll be putting up a daily poll asking GGN to vote on the best available players from a rolling list of 15 candidates. The idea here is to build a generic Big Board reflecting the community’s view of this year’s draft class regardless of the Jets’ (or any other team’s) particular needs. For example, you may think the Jets don’t need a Center this year, but that should not necessarily prevent you from placing a Center high on the Big Board if said Center warrants it. Each day we will close the previous day’s poll and the candidate with the most votes will be added to the GGN Big Board. In the event of a tie vote both players will go up on the Board. By the time the draft rolls around we should have 50 players on our Big Board.

If a name you think should be on the poll is not there you can write in candidates in the comments. If a player gets support in the comments I’ll consider adding him to the poll. If a player repeatedly gets zero votes he may be dropped from the poll for a few days.

We all have different views. What we’re looking for here is a composite of the best players in the community’s collective mind. Your views may or may not coincide with the community’s, and either way that’s OK. Life here on GGN would be pretty boring if we all agreed on everything.

Let’s get to it. Today we continue with the #24 prospect on the crowd sourced GGN Big Board 2025. Who will it be? Vote early, vote often, and let’s hear who you think are the best players in this draft.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...pect-no-23-mike-green-new-york-jets-nfl-draft

 

[New York Jets]

Scouting Jets cornerback Brandon Stephens

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Taking a look at the Jets’ new starting cornerback

The New York Jets signed former Baltimore Ravens defensive back Brandon Stephens to a three-year contract early on in free agency. Today we break Stephens down in detail.

The 27-year old Stephens is listed at 6’1” and 215 pounds. He was a third round pick out of SMU in 2021. He has started 48 games in his four seasons with the Ravens, including 33 of 34 games over the past two seasons, and has registered 259 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions.

Background

Stephens was a running back in high school and headed to UCLA as a four star recruit. He only rushed for 95 yards in his first season in 2016, of which 71 came in the same game, but his role increased in 2017 and he generated 151 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown in a reserve role. In one game, he carried 20 times for 83 yards.

Early on in his third season, Stephens made the decision to redshirt and become a graduate transfer at the end of the season. On arrival at SMU, it was decided that he would be converted to cornerback.

In two years as a starting cornerback at SMU, Stephens registered 92 tackles and broke up 22 passes. He recorded the first interception of his career in his final season.

Stephens was invited to the scouting combine, which didn’t take place due to the pandemic, and headed into the 2021 draft as a projected mid-round pick. The Ravens selected him in the third round and immediately announced they were converting him to safety.

In his rookie year, Stephens was the third safety for the Ravens, but moved into the starting lineup following an injury in November and ended up with 11 starts and a career-high 78 tackles. He added four pass breakups.

Ahead of the 2022 season, Stephens was converted back into a cornerback role and played a variety of positions in a rotational role. He only started four games but had 37 tackles, seven pass breakups and half a sack.

2023 was a breakout year for Stephens as he became a full-time starter due to an injury to Marlon Humphrey and started 16 games. He had 74 tackles, 11 pass breakups and two interceptions, then had 12 more tackles in two postseason games. He wasn’t as good in 2024, although he did have 70 tackles, 10 pass breakups and a career-high 1.5 sacks.

The Jets signed Stephens to a three-year deal worth up to $36 million early on in free agency.

Let’s move onto some more in-depth analysis of what Stephens brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.

Measurables/Athleticism

Stephens has good size and length and put together excellent numbers during his pro day workout. He ran a 4.44 in the 40-yard dash, managed 19 bench press reps and posted great explosiveness numbers. His agility numbers were about average.

Usage

In a short space of time, Stephens has accumulated a lot of experience in a variety of roles. He was mostly an outside cornerback in college but then played as a deep safety for the Ravens which often saw him matched up in the slot.

Since moving to cornerback, he’s mostly played outside, but he did start a few games in a full-time slot role.

As a corner he’s been employed both in press coverage and off coverage and has also played some zone.

Coverage skills

Other than Alontae Taylor, Stephens has been the most-targeted cornerback in the entire NFL over the past two years, so obviously he’s been challenged a lot and given up a lot of volume in coverage.

Having only given up a catch on 50 percent of his targets in college, he’s given up catches 65 percent of the time at the NFL level and quarterbacks had a rating of over 100 when targeting him last year, although his numbers were solid in 2023.

One thing Stephens does well is run stride for stride with his man on deep routes and, when he anticipates well, he can stay tight on his man coming out of a break.

He’s very physical in coverage, often leaning on his man down the field to disrupt their route and making a lot of contact when the ball is in the air.

Stephens’ route recognition can be inconsistent at times, making it difficult to recover if he hesitates.

While he’s often lined up in press position, he bailed out more often than he jammed or disrupted the receiver’s route at the line, but his experience at safety means he’s also comfortable latching onto a coverage assignment down the field when he’s playing off.

Ball skills

In watching Stephens’ film, there are a few causes for concern. Paramount among these is that he is usually late to get his head turned and locate the ball, sometimes not getting his head turned at all and instead resorting to watching the receiver’s timing and swatting blindly at the ball or the receiver’s arms to try to disrupt.

He’s relatively adept at this, but you get the sense that the league’s elite receivers are more often than not going to come down with the ball if he doesn’t get clean contact on it. Even when he does get his head turned, it’s often at the very last moment and he isn’t always ideally positioned to compete for the ball.

Nevertheless, Stephens is competitive at the catchpoint and has had some success at knocking the ball away from a receiver who looked to have a catch secured or causing them to fail to complete a catch with a well-timed hit on their body. As a result, his on-ball production has been good.

He hasn’t intercepted any passes at the catchpoint though. Of his two NFL picks, both came on diving grabs; one on a deflected pass and the other on a wayward pass due to a communication breakdown.

He could have had a couple more interceptions but he dropped one (albeit on fourth down, where intercepting it would have worsened the field position) and had another where he caught the ball but didn’t come down with both feet inbounds.

Tackling

With his experience as a safety, Stephens brings some good hitting ability as a tackler. He has good closing speed, takes good angles in pursuit and can knock a ball carrier backwards or stop him in his tracks.

He is a secure tackler when he has time to line his man up but will miss tackles in space from time to time.

He hasn’t had a forced fumble at the NFL or college level, although he has stripped the ball away from a few receivers to cause incompletions.

Run defense

Stephens contributes well in run support and has made more of an impact as his career has progressed despite moving away from the safety position. He shows a willingness to come up on the outside or into the box and plays with discipline and patience.

In his rookie year, he was much more productive as a tackler against the run, but nearly all of these stops were at the second level or down the field. He’s had a much higher percentage of run stops at or near the line since moving back to corner.

Physicality

As a former running back, Stephens is obviously attuned to the process of being physical, taking on contact and being aggressive in matchups.

That brings us to the other main concern about Stephens’ film. He is very “handsy”, often going right up to the limit in terms of whether or not he could be flagged. If you look at Stephens’ highlights, a lot of the plays where he successfully defended a pass end with the receiver complaining that there should have been a flag.

He’s had 17 penalties in coverage during his career with 10 for pass interference, five for holding and two for illegal contract. That’s not actually too bad when you consider that he’s replacing DJ Reed who had 11 last season alone. However, it’s definitely troubling because he does have a habit of putting his hands on his man and is often late to get his head turned, which is a combination that makes it hard to argue any calls that go against him.

If he comes up against a bigger receiver, he can lose the physical battle too, especially if he’s late locating the ball and finds himself in a less than ideal position to contest.

Blitzing

Stephens hasn’t had many chances to blitz, and even fewer since he moved out of the safety position, but has recorded three sacks in regular season and preseason action and his closing speed is an asset when coupled with the element of surprise that sending him can produce.

He’s also had a few pressures and deflected a couple of passes at the line, including this one to lead to a turnover.

He has had one penalty for roughing the passer.

Special teams

Stephens barely played on special teams in 2024 and probably wouldn’t be expected to do so much (assuming he’s starting) for the Jets.

His main contributions have come on the kick coverage units, as he has had three special teams tackles in college and seven at the NFL level.

Stephens has played some vice and rushed kicks and punts but has not been used as a primary gunner. He has also had one missed tackle and a penalty for running into the kicker at the NFL level.

Instincts/Intelligence

Stephens’ versatility seems to have helped him to adapt to positions and schemes that are relatively new to him quite quickly. He’s played under three different defensive coordinators and multiple defensive backs coaches in his pro career so far but still shows signs of good positional awareness and an ability to read and react.

He has been involved in a few coverage busts and communication breakdowns in the defensive backfield at times, though.

As noted, Stephens graduated college in three years. In high school, he was on the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll and he was on the National Football Foundation Hampshire Honor Society in college.

Attitude

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta praised Stephens’ attitude and called him a great teammate, as he has been lauded for staying positive in the face of criticism early in his career before breaking out in 2023. DeCosta also said that his attitude didn’t waver in spite of his 2024 struggles.

He is said to have a relentless work ethic, a determination to keep improving and a team-first attitude in terms of his willingness to contribute in other roles.

His on-field discipline has been relatively good, with no personal fouls other than his roughing the passer penalty. He was fined for a helmet to helmet hit that wasn’t flagged though.

Injuries

Stephens has only dealt with minor injuries in his career so far. He had a shoulder sprain in 2021, a quad strain in 2022 and an ankle sprain in 2023. He was also hospitalized due to illness late in the 2022 season. In all, he has missed just three games in his career and played all 17 last season.

Scheme Fit

Stephens’ versatility is sure to serve him well and the Jets appear to have earmarked him as someone who will fit their system, which is expected to be man-heavy.

The assumption is that they intend for him to be the other starting cornerback across from Sauce Gardner, but his history will give them options in the event they need to shuffle the pack because of injuries.

He was a teammate of current Jets John Simpson and Tre Swilling when he played in Baltimore.

Conclusions

Stephens is a good athlete who was regarded as raw when he entered the NFL and arguably overdrafted based on potential. Four years later, he’s established himself as a starter-level player and earned himself a decent contract from the Jets, who reportedly had to outbid the Dallas Cowboys to land him.

At this stage of his career, there’s still some rawness to his game technically and he appears to have one or two bad habits. It’s possible that Aaron Glenn views these issues as fixable and feels like he has the potential to help him reach another level, but these aspects were frustrating to Ravens fans over the past few seasons and many of them were surprised at the contract he was given. In an offseason where the Jets haven’t taken many risks, this might be the biggest.

Stephens is moving from a situation where he was targeted a lot while teams would shy away from testing Humphrey and Nate Wiggins and that probably won’t change much now he’ll be playing with Sauce Gardner and Michael Carter II. For the deal to pay off, he needs to handle this like he did in 2023, because a repeat of last year’s struggles could make the Jets’ pass defense vulnerable and potentially mitigate Gardner’s impact in a pivotal year for him.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...ing-new-york-jets-cornerback-brandon-stephens

 

[New York Jets]

Building A GGN Big Board 2025: Prospect No. 24

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Let’s crowd source a 2025 NFL draft big board

We have the #24 prospect on the 2025 GGN Big Board. And the winner is: Jihaad Campbell, Linebacker, Alabama! With Campbell taking the #24 spot, our crowd sourced Big Board now looks like this:

1. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
2. Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado
3. Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
4. Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami
5. Tyler Warren, Tight End, Penn State
6. Ashton Jeanty, Running Back, Boise State
7. Tetairoa McMillan, Wide Receiver, Arizona
8. Will Campbell, Offensive Lineman, LSU
9. Armand Membou, Offensive Tackle, Missouri
10. Will Johnson, Cornerback, Michigan
11. Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado
12. Kelvin Banks Jr, Offensive Tackle, Texas
13. Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
14. Malaki Starks, Safety, Georgia
15. Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M
16. Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia
17. Matthew Golden, Wide Receiver, Texas
18. Nick Emmanwori, Safety, South Carolina
19. Colston Loveland, Tight End, Michigan
20. Jaxson Dart, Quarterback, Mississippi
21. Jahdae Barron, Cornerback, Texas
22. Emeka Egbuka, Wide Receiver, Ohio State
23. Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
24. Jihaad Campbell, Linebacker, Alabama
25. ?

From now until late April I’ll be putting up a daily poll asking GGN to vote on the best available players from a rolling list of 15 candidates. The idea here is to build a generic Big Board reflecting the community’s view of this year’s draft class regardless of the Jets’ (or any other team’s) particular needs. For example, you may think the Jets don’t need a Center this year, but that should not necessarily prevent you from placing a Center high on the Big Board if said Center warrants it. Each day we will close the previous day’s poll and the candidate with the most votes will be added to the GGN Big Board. In the event of a tie vote both players will go up on the Board. By the time the draft rolls around we should have 50 players on our Big Board.

If a name you think should be on the poll is not there you can write in candidates in the comments. If a player gets support in the comments I’ll consider adding him to the poll. If a player repeatedly gets zero votes he may be dropped from the poll for a few days.

We all have different views. What we’re looking for here is a composite of the best players in the community’s collective mind. Your views may or may not coincide with the community’s, and either way that’s OK. Life here on GGN would be pretty boring if we all agreed on everything.

Let’s get to it. Today we continue with the #25 prospect on the crowd sourced GGN Big Board 2025. Who will it be? Vote early, vote often, and let’s hear who you think are the best players in this draft.

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...no-24-jihaad-campbell-new-york-jets-nfl-draft

 

[New York Jets]

New York Jets Flight Connections 03/30/25

Bringing your daily links to the NFL’s New York Jets

Good morning, Gang Green Nation!

We are a few weeks away from the 2025 NFL Draft. Attention is moving from free agency to what the Jets will do with the 7th overall pick. Buzz continues to grow about the team’s interest in certain prospects, notably tight end Tyler Warren from Penn State. It’s always difficult to tell how legitimate these rumors are. It’s in everybody’s interest to spread false information. For now, all we can do is guess.

Here are your Sunday Jets links.

Joe Blewett - NY Jets film breakdown: Does Tyler Warren live up to the hype?

Connor Long - NY Jets meet with two Texas A&M defensive linemen

Connor Long - New York Jets are bringing back special teams ace

Connor Long - NY Jets to visit with North Dakota State sleeper

Nick Faria - Derrick Nnadi delivers NY Jets the secret to a winning mindset

Nick Faria - Josh Reynolds engages Jets fans with inspiring message

Nick Faria - NY Jets face decision on reuniting with former starting WR

Colin Martin - Jets 2025 NFL Mock Draft Roundup: Experts see TE Tyler Warren as perfect fit for NY with QB Justin Fields

Justin Fried - Former NY Jets RB and Adam Gase favorite just made UFL history

Justin Fried - NY Jets could shock fans with controversial linebacker pick at No. 7

Justin Fried - NY Jets nearly pulled off last-minute free agency heist for top Broncos target

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Eyeing 21-Year-Old Star After He ‘Turned Heads’

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Predicted To Pair Justin Fields With Breakout Star

Patrick McAvoy - Jets Among ‘Best Fits’ For Fast-Rising Prospect

Patrick McAvoy - Jets ‘Most Likely’ Big-Name Addition Revealed By Insider

Jackson Roberts - Jets-Ravens Blockbuster Trade Idea Ships $56 Million 3-Time Pro Bowler To New York

Colin Keane - Jets Might Draft Miami Pass Catcher Who Overcame Multiple Injuries

Paul Edsen - Jets Meet With 27 Combined Sack Pass Rushers: Report

Paul Edsen - Jets Had Talks With ‘Hall of Fame Bloodlines’ 6-Foot-5 Monster Target

Dharya Sharma - Jets trade proposal adds Ravens $56 million star weapon for Justin Fields

Kam Towie - 2025 NFL draft: Jets land offensive weapon in NFL.com mock

Here are your missed connections from yesterday.

Have a great Sunday!

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...arren-aaron-glenn-justin-fields-darren-mougey

 

[New York Jets]

General Manager Darren Mougey gives thoughts on drafting “premium” positions

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

In a shocking bombshell, Mougey says he wants to add good players

Earlier in the offseason I wrote about how the New York Jets could adopt some of the draft views of the Detriot Lions around drafting premium positions. Specifically, I noted how willing the Lions were to draft non-premium positions early in the draft and how the Jets could draft similarly with Aaron Glenn joining the fold as head coach.

Recently, general manager Darren Mougey was asked about his thoughts on this exact topic, and he signaled some alignment with that assumption about Glenn.

"We're always looking to add good players, regardless of position"

Darren Mougey is asked about how the Jets value "premium" and "non-premium" positions pic.twitter.com/6TFXm6DzFp

— Jets Videos (@snyjets) March 30, 2025​

While many things could impact who the New York Jet take, this quote makes it seem Mougey is open to drafting players at non-premium positions in the early rounds, which stands in opposition to the principles of some of his peers. Whether this strategy is wise is up for debate, but it has been a rousing success for the Lions given the success of players such as running back Jahmyr Gibbs and tight end Sam LaPorta, and could yield similar successes for the Jets if executed well.

What do you think? What positions should the Jets be open to drafting in round 1?

Source: https://www.ganggreennation.com/202...fting-premium-positions-ny-jets-detroit-lions