The New York Jets addressed a critical need by drafting Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu, aiming to strengthen a position that has been a weak spot in recent years. Chosen 11th overall, the 21-year-old joins the NFL after an impressive college season, during which he played 722 snaps, allowed only 10 pressures, and did not surrender a single sack.
Jets Bolster Offensive Line with Key Draft Pick
As the Jets work towards building a championship-caliber team, they also received significant trade interest. General Manager Joe Douglas got an enticing offer from the Los Angeles Rams, who wanted to move up in the draft.
The Rams eventually stayed at the 19th overall pick and selected Florida State pass-rusher Jared Verse. However, they had shown interest in jumping to the 10th pick, which the Jets moved from to secure Fashanu at 11th. The Rams’ offer included their first and second-round picks to move up nine spots, likely targeting Georgia tight end Brock Bowers to enhance their offense and protect quarterback Matt Stafford.
The Jets themselves considered drafting Bowers to add another dynamic weapon to their offense. However, prioritizing the offensive line was crucial for the Jets, who ranked 30th in pass protection last season with 50 sacks and 280 pressures allowed. With their line plagued by injuries, Douglas was determined to prevent a repeat of those issues in 2024, making the decision to invest in Fashanu a strategic move to ensure long-term stability at the tackle position.
