After six combined years of Mark Sanchez and Geno Smith at quarterback, the collective mood of New York Jets fans is about as cheery as a showing of "Schindler's List." Regardless of the state of the rest of the roster, the Jets have always been held back by their lack of a franchise quarterback. It's the main problem that led to Rex Ryan's demise and it's the main problem new head coach Todd Bowles will have to address.
Could he address it as soon as April?
ESPN NFL Draft Insider Todd McShay projects the Jets to select Oregon quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota with the sixth overall pick in his Mock Draft 3.0.
"If this scenario plays out, it provides the Jets' new regime a great opportunity to draft their guy at quarterback," McShay wrote. "As I wrote in the Bucs' section, I see Mariota as being a notch below Winston, but I do believe he has the potential to become a good starter in this league, so long as the team that take him has a plan to develop him. Jets offensive coordinator Chan Gailey is a good fit for Mariota in that regard, given his history with spread-formation offenses. He can incorporate some up-tempo and zone-read elements for Mariota early while also developing his ability to win from the pocket, which is what Mariota will need to succeed long term."
New York will likely have some tough competition if they hope to draft Mariota at No. 6. The Philadelphia Eagles have been rumored to be interested in trading up to No. 5 to snag Chip Kelly's former star QB. Would the Jets be willing to make a pre-emptive move to ensure they get their guy?
If New York isn't completely sold on Mariota, the team could always opt for top prospects such as pass-rusher Shane Ray or wide receiver Amari Cooper. While both are talented players, the QB-starved New York fan base is probably hoping for more of a splash.
Either way, the Jets are well positioned to add a difference maker in the 2015 NFL draft.
