New York Jets Eye Michigan Cornerstone Will Johnson in Strategic Draft Move to Fortify Their Defense and Reinforce Position Seventh Overall in NFL Draft
The New York Jets, after a challenging 2024 season, find themselves holding the seventh overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Despite the struggles, Jets fans can at least take solace in the fact that the team will have the opportunity to secure a top prospect as compensation for their season of tribulation.
According to Anthony Rizzuti of USA Today, the Jets are predicted to select Michigan cornerback Will Johnson with their seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Rizzuti believes that the Jets, potentially losing starting cornerback D.J. Reed to free agency, will need to fortify their defense to withstand such a blow. This strategic move would see the Jets investing their first-round pick in a fellow defensive back, under the guidance of first-year head coach Aaron Glenn, himself a former Jets player. With Johnson joining forces with Sauce Gardner and slot defender Michael Carter II, the Jets could potentially boast one of the most formidable cornerback trios in the league.
What makes Rizzuti’s mock draft particularly intriguing is his prediction for the first overall pick. Instead of the Tennessee Titans selecting a quarterback to replace Will Levis, Rizzuti envisions the Titans drafting the sensational Travis Hunter. While this would certainly shake up the draft landscape, it presents an interesting opportunity for the Jets. With either Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward likely to be available at the fifth pick, the Jets could potentially trade up to secure their coveted quarterback.
However, if the Jets do decide to stick with their seventh overall pick, Will Johnson would undoubtedly be a solid choice. Johnson has proven himself to be a true cover corner during his time at Michigan, consistently coming out on top in matchups against tough receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. His ability to shut down opposing receivers and his overall skill set make him an attractive prospect for the Jets.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the New York Jets are positioning themselves to fortify their defense and reinforce their position in the league. With the potential addition of Will Johnson, a cornerstone from Michigan, the Jets are making a strategic move to bolster their roster and improve their chances of success in the upcoming season.