Now that the 2012 NFL Draft is over, we're profiling each team's draft. Who were the steals? Who were the reaches? We continue with the New York Jets.
2012 NFL Draft analysis: New York Jets
The New York Jets always have to make an offseason splash. Tim Tebow was the name of that splash this offseason, which came after an underwhelming season for the Jets.
Mike Tannebaum entered the 2012 NFL Draft with one less pick to work with as a result of the Tebow trade. And while the Jets didn’t collect a stellar class of draftees, the team filled a few needs last weekend.
Quinton Coples was not an ideal first round selection. He was thought of as more of a 4-3 player, and did not have the strongest senior season, but Rex Ryan will find a way to use him effectively.In the second and third rounds, the selections of wide receiver Stephen Hill and linebacker DeMario Davis were two excellent value picks that filled big needs on New York's roster. In a weak safety class, the Jets managed to find value in the seventh round in South Carolina's Antonio Allen. Time will tell how this class will perform, but it's a middle of the road type of class at this stage.
Questionable selection: DE Quinton Coples, Round 1, pick 16
Quinton Coples was a highly debated prospect throughout the pre-draft process. Spotty effort and inconsistent production kept Coples out of the top ten. But the Jets think they can get something out of him. This is a bet of a questionable pick because of the scheme fit. Coples seemed to be best fit for 4-3 defensive end. Although he does have experience playing inside, which would make him a decent 3-4 defensive end. It will be interesting how Rex Ryan utilizes Coples, but I’m skeptical of how he’ll fit in.
Late-Round Steal: S Antonio Allen, Round 7, pick 242
The 2012 NFL Draft was very thing at safety, but Antonio Allen was highly ranked heading into draft weekend. It was a bit of a surprise to see him fall this far, but the Jets can’t complain. They found a potential starter in the seventh round. Allen will certainly need some work, and he is not without flaws, but he has as much upside as a team can hope for in round seven.
2013 mock draft pick: Josh D - Brandon Jenkins, DE/OLB, Florida State | Matthew Fairburn - Tyler Wilson, Quarterback, Arkansas
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