After the first round ended around midnight on Thursday night, the speculation for the Jets instantly went to the 34th pick. There was a ton of speculation that they would take one of the “many” offers to move down and recoup picks from the Alijah Vera-Tucker trade, but they decided to stand pat when it was their turn on the clock.
There were many big names remaining on the board, but ultimately Joe Douglas and the rest of the crew went with Ole Miss wide receiver, Elijah Moore.
The former Rebel had an incredible 2020 season putting up video game numbers through eight games, before deciding to opt out (86 receptions, 1,193 yards and 8 TDs). Moore is an incredibly versatile receiver despite being listed under 5’10 and 185 pounds, showing the ability to line up in the slot, outside and even in the backfield from time to time. However, he will likely be lining up in the slot throughout the majority of his career.
In terms of his game, Moore brings a lot to the table. First and foremost, the route running he possesses is mesmerizing. He understands how to use his body to get where he needs to go as efficiently as possible and his foot quickness is a massive help in that department as well. He creates more separation than any receiver in this draft class, according to Pro Football Focus, which cannot be understated enough. Whether or not he does get that separation, he catches everything that comes his way, only dropping one pass this past season.
After once the ball is in Moore’s hands is when he can go crazy. His speed and yards after the catch ability is top notch and something this offense was missing. Sure, they got some speed on the outside but Crowder and Cole don’t have that game changing speed on inside. Running a 4.32 40 yard dash at his pro day shows the home run ability. But getting yards after the catch is more than speed, it’s elusiveness, toughness, acceleration and vision, which he continued to show through his 2020 season. The day one role for Moore remains to be seen, but at worst he will fill the gadget type role while splitting snaps at a variety of receiver alignments. Either way, they will get him his touches whether it be on Jet reverses, screens, handoffs or as a normal receiver past the line of scrimmage, believe that.
Through three picks, Joe Douglas was able to grab two players in his top 10 (Wilson, Vera-Tucker) and now another in his top 25 with Moore. JD understands that getting the brand new franchise quarterback quality players on the offensive side of the ball is the most important thing and he did not waste any time.
#InJoeWeTrust
