The problem with waiting a year is that I think we need to replace both Thomas and Pace within the next 2-3 years, because of their age, declining skills and growing contract figures. We know how hard it is to find one OLB who will make it as a legit pass rusher in a draft. It's impossible to find 2. If the Jets don't find one this year, they're either forced to come up with 2 next year, or keep Pace with an exhorbitant contract figure that will really hurt the cap. It doesn't have to be at #30, but I think the Jets have to find an OLB in this draft. You all know how I hate trading up, but if Aldon Smith falls to 24 and the Jets can use their 3rd to move up and get him, I say go get him. Otherwise, trade down into the 2nd and take Reed, Wilsonj, Acho or Sheard.
I don't disagree with any of what you said. Yet if BPA is the way it's gonna go under Rex, I can't see them trading back from #30 if Heyward is there...
Alas, you're probably right. That's why I don't like slavishly adhering to any philosophy. While taking the BAP or BPA is normally the smartest thing to do, and should be done most of the time, I don't think it is always the best move. For instance, even though Ingram is an excellent player, would be excellent for the Jets, and probably would be the BAP, I don't think he improves the running game that significantly, or more significantly than a pass rushing OLB could/would do. Just because he's the BPA doesn't mean you have to take him. I'm sure a number of teams would be willing to move up to get him. The Jets could move to the 2nd round,, get the BAP at that point, and garner an additional pick or picks to address other needs.
It's still early, but 4 of my favorites going into this season are(no order): Courtney Upshaw, OLB Bama - Came on big at the end of the year after being hobbled by a high ankle sprain. Him actually playing the Hybrid position under Saban is a big plus. Bruce Irvin, DE WVU - Has a great first step, freakish speed for the position. This will be the 1st year being a full time starter after being a 3rd down specialist last season. Needs to gain some weight, but has said he hopes to be around 250 for the season. Brandon Jenkins, DE FSU - Could be the best of the bunch. He got the best of the likes of Matt Reynolds, Anthony Castonzo, and Orlando Franklin last season. Fluid athlete. Brandon Lindsey, OLB PITT - Former LB who stepped up for the Panthers last season with the Romeus situation. Will transition back to LB in Keith Patterson's 3-4 in a rush role.
South Carolina's Devin Taylor is an intriguing 3-4 OLB. He drops into coverage every now and then - former basketball player with a great size/speed combo: 6'7 255 and he's been clocked in the 4.6s.
Definitely, Ellis Johnson always seems to pick correctly for his Hybrid role in his 4-2-5. If he can get a tad more consistent(no sacks in the last 6 of 7 games), he could get his name called early in 2012. Hell, that line as a whole is scary...
