Jets targeting offensive line with fourth pick?

We’ll remove offensive tackle Charles Cross from consideration, focusing on Iken Ekwonu and Alabama offensive lineman Evan Neal. Both are projected top-five picks capable of playing multiple positions on the Jets’ line in 2022 and beyond.

Ikem Ekwonu, OL, NC State

Ekwonu, a 6-foot-4 tackle, dominated for the Wolfpack. He also received immense praise for his maturity and presence in the locker room, important qualities for the Jets’ organization. Pro Football Focus credited him with 18 big-time blocks, grading him as the best run-blocking tackle in the nation. Ekwonu has a wrestling background, giving him plenty of flexibility and a knowledge of how to use leverage. The moment he steps onto the field, Ekwonu can thrive as a run blocker either at left tackle or right tackle for the Jets,

There is room for him to improve in pass protection. As NFL.com Lance Zierlein notes, Ekwonu needs to become more consistent with his punches and how he uses his hands. He also showed shortcomings in maintaining cohesion with his hand and feet, resulting in lapses protecting the quarterback. With that said, the physical tools and character make him a starting-caliber player immediately and there’s Pro Bowl potential at either guard or tackle.

Evan Neal, OL, Alabama

If the Jets want to draft an offensive lineman who is more pro-ready in pass protection than Ekwonu, Neal seems like a logical fit. Alabama deployed him pretty much everywhere along the offensive line during this three-year stretch as a starter, but he spent the past two seasons at both tackle spots.

The Crimson Tide’s team captain surrendered just 24 pressures (PFF) in his final two seasons for an offense that ramped up its passing attack. Keep in mind that he faced the best possible competition on a weekly basis playing in the SEC. 

Neal moves extremely well for his size and the Alabama coaching staff helped him develop refined technique as a blocker. He’ll need help from NFL coaches with his balance and consistency, but those areas can be improved over time.

Ultimately, whichever selection the Jets make on the offensive line should be good news for Wilson. After spending his rookie season playing behind an offensive line that allowed 135 pressures and 103 hurries when he started, either Neal or Ekwonu will help Wilson.