New York Jets Draft Cheat Sheet

Picks: Round 1, No. 6 (6 Overall); Round 2, No. 6 5 (36); Round 4, No. 3 (102); Round 4, No. 14 (113); Round 6, No. 5 (171); Round 7, No. 4 (211).

Team draft needs (in order of most pressing): DE, LB, WR, CB, QB, OL, DT, RB, S, TE, K/P

Names to know:

Jake Long (OT, Michigan) — That’s the Dolphins’ pick. Don’t be the person who is misinformed and, in trying to “prove his fanhood,” suggests that the former Wolverine could fall to the Jets.

Darren McFadden (RB, Arkansas) — A value pick from the organization’s standpoint. He could go to the Raiders at No. 4, but if he doesn’t, expect Gang Green to consider selecting him. The former Razorback has drawn many comparisons to the Vikings’ Adrian Peterson, a Pro Bowl rookie from last season.

Vernon Gholston (DE/OLB, Ohio State) — Many people were impressed with his workout numbers, others have said they’ve seen glimpses of Lawrence Taylor in him. Whatever the case, Gholston’s ability to play both as a defensive end and linebacker is the type of creativity that head coach Eric Mangini looks for.

Matt Ryan (QB, Boston College) — If the Jets are not sold on either Chad Pennington or Kellen Clemens as their quarterback of the future, Ryan is their man. He posses the smarts and intangibles that the position requires while also having a good arm.

Also know: Chris Long (DE, Virginia), Keith Davis (LB, USC), Leodis McKelvin (CB, Troy State)

Storyline to follow:

The Jets are picking sixth overall in the first round while the Patriots, their AFC East rival, are picking directly afterward at No. 7. With the Patriots more than willing to trade out of their spot for a cheaper price than Gang Green, expect downward movement from the Jets at this spot to be very difficult.