Projecting what could happen before the Panthers pick at No. 6 – 2.0

New York Jets select Kayvon Thibodeaux

• Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | Oregon

This is arguably the most interesting team to monitor in the top five. The New York Jets already have their long-term quarterback in Zach Wilson and providing Mekhi Becton makes a smooth recovery from injury, their offensive line should also be sufficient.

The Jets have an abundance of draft capital this year after the Jamal Adams trade and the selections they acquired from the Carolina Panthers in the Sam Darnold deal. This could mean it’s a case of taking the best player available and Kayvon Thibodeaux ticks all the boxes and then some.

Thibodeaux is arguably the best pass-rusher in this class. His explosiveness is off the charts and this is matched by outstanding footwork and speed to get into opposing backfields consistently.

Pairing Thibodeaux with the returning Carl Lawson would give the Jets a defensive edge presence they’ve been lacking for quite some time. But it would be foolish to rule out the team taking someone like cornerback Sauce Gardner or Kyle Hamilton to bolster their secondary.

It’s also worth remembering that the Jets have two picks in the top-10 this year. Something that Joe Douglas and company need to take advantage of to stand any chance of improving their fortunes in 2022.