The New York Jets have been hard at work to dissociate from the Aaron Rodgers era as quickly as possible. Step one was bringing in Aaron Glenn as the new head coach. The next was replacing Rodgers with a boom-or-bust prospect in Justin Fields.
However, if the team wants to succeed right away, they’ll need the right pieces around those two. Thanks to Glenn’s work as defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, it’s likely he stabilizes New York’s defense. But the offense will need help via the 2025 NFL Draft.
New York Jets Predicted to Trade Down in Draft
Holding the No. 7 overall pick gives the Jets a real shot at landing a game-changer. However, one analyst believes it would be smarter to trade down in exchange for a haul of draft picks.
The latest mock draft from PFSN has New York trading with a team that might be the best bet to sign their former quarterback: the Pittsburgh Steelers. In the trade, the Steelers move up while sending the Jets an additional third-round pick and a 2026 first-rounder.
Jacob Infante explained his decision, writing, “Moving from No. 7 to No. 21 is a steep jump, but with an extra third-round pick and a future first-rounder added to the mix, the New York Jets could be smart to stockpile on picks to retool their roster post-Aaron Rodgers.”
Then, with the No. 21 overall pick, New York selects Colston Loveland to replace the recently departed Tyler Conklin. Outside of their wide receivers, the Jets struggled to generate offense through the air. No tight end apart from Conklin even topped 105 receiving yards.
“Though overshadowed by [Tyler] Warren, Colston Loveland is a top-tier talent,” Infante continued. “He’s a smooth athlete who stretches the field and thrives on seam routes. His pass-catching ability makes him a strong first-round pick.”
Even on a run-first Michigan team, Loveland posted back-to-back seasons with more than 580 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Given the lack of production from the Jets’ tight ends last season, that level of output would be a huge step in the right direction.
Loveland most notably put together a huge game last season against then No. 1 Oregon. While Oregon wasn’t known for their defense, his 7 receptions for 112 yards were impressive.
Plus, his game tape shows the potential for even more. For a Jets team that must build around Fields and give him real help, Loveland might be their best bet in the first round.