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With the NFL Draft now in the rearview mirror we take the New York Jets "Off The Clock" with pick-by-pick analysis, the Bible's take and our grade.
 (1-5) Mark Sanchez, QB (USC): Hello Mr. Hollywood, welcome to New York City! The collective joy of Jets fans is a rare site at the Draft but it was clear to see that fans did not want to see a quarterback battle between Brett Ratliff and Kellen Clemens heading into their new pricey PSL stadium. So far, the relationship has been good but it could get rocky real fast if Sanchez doesn’t live up to the hype. The Jets surrendered the #17 and #52 overall picks, in addition to Ratliff, defensive end Kenyon Coleman and defensive back Abram Elam—not a whole lot if Sanchez turns out to be their franchise quarterback. (Pick From Cleveland)
(3-65) Shonn Greene, RB (Iowa): The J-E-T-S traded up to take the powerful running back out of Iowa. This was somewhat of a surprise considering big backs Andre Brown and Rashad Jennings could have been had later in the draft. Did they really have trade up? The next question is—could Thomas Jones be on the way out? With the addition of Greene, Jones’ days in the Big Apple are numbered, if not this year then next. The former Hawkeye could complement Leon Washington very well, providing the Jets with their own version of Mr. Inside & Mr. Outside. (Pick From Detroit)
(6-193) Matthew Slauson, OG (Nebraska): Not the sexy pick most New Yorkers would have liked, but the former Cornhusker was our ninth rated guard and appears to be good value this late in the draft. A productive collegian who is strong, tough, and has excellent awareness, he’s a potential starter down the road for a team that is looking to develop a physical rushing attack.
Team Needs: WR, DE, QB, TE, RB, OL
Needs Filled: Three of five.
The Bible’s Take: The problem is the Jets gave themselves very little margin for error in this draft. They better be right on each and every pick—even the sixth rounder—and need to add some pieces via priority free agency among the undrafted players. They did address three of their needs, but neglected to address the defensive line and one of their most pressing needs—wide receiver. The anti-Patriots, the Jets put all their eggs—money and picks—in one basket.
Grade: C
Photo Credit: College Press Box (Iowa)
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