2017 NFL mock draft: Pat Elflein to the New York Jets

The line in New York is upgraded instantly with the Ohio State blocker.

Apr 12, 2017, 7:00 PM UTC

Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

When the first round of the SB Nation NFL writers’ mock draft was taking place, the New York Jets were faced with the decision whether or not to take a quarterback. Our Jets site Gang Green Nation decided to pass on the position, and players like DeShone Kizer, Patrick Mahomes, and Mitchell Trubisky all went in the next 20 picks.

In the second round, it wouldn’t make sense to take players like Davis Webb or Nathan Peterman because they’re pretty much on the same level as current Jets quarterbacks Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty. Instead of reaching on one of them, David Wyatt of Gang Green Nation is here to add a building block for the Jets.

39. New York Jets, Pat Elflein, C/OG, Ohio State

Wyatt: With the release of Nick Mangold, the Jets should be looking to the future at the center position, and that future comes in the form of another Ohio State standout.

The Jets probably won’t be competing in 2017 so it’s time to start putting the foundation blocks in for a long-term movement, and Elflein is one of the safest picks in the draft.

Elflein is an excellent leader on and off the field. He has above average play strength from his wrestling background, he’s a dominant run blocker, and he’s a patient pass blocker. He’s smart with great instincts and recognition, plus he uses his hands well. When you add on that he could slot in at center and at both guard spots ... this may not be the sexiest move, but it’s the smartest one.

Center is one of the most important positions on the football field, and we’ve been lucky enough to move from Kevin Mawae to Mangold. Elflein has the pedigree to continue the excellent play as the anchor of the line.

Analysis: Elflein’s draft placement is going to be fascinating. He’s the best center in the draft by a considerable margin, and there are a few teams right in this range that could use a center, including the Rams a couple picks before New York.

Center at Ohio State is a coveted position, often given to veterans only. Because of that Elflein played just a season at the position in Columbus, but he acquainted himself well. He plays exactly how you’d expect from a center. He’s tough and aggressive and doesn’t give up space to defensive linemen. If the draft is about finding starters, the Jets have in this mock by landing Elflein and Jamal Adams.