The 2024 NFL Draft posed an intriguing scenario for the New York Jets, leaving many fans and analysts speculating on their potential moves.
While Brock Bowers, the highly-touted tight end, seemed like a prime choice, the Jets surprised everyone with their selection.
In a recent appearance on an ESPN radio show, Joe Douglas shed light on the team’s decision-making process, emphasizing their focus on acquiring a player who embodied their values and playing style.
Douglas remarked, “It became really clear like we’re going to get a player in Olu [Fashanu] that is highly productive, is our type of guy, plays with our type of mentality, and it was just an opportunity that we couldn’t pass up,” as noted by Paul Andrew Esden Jr. on Twitter.
#Jets GM Joe Douglas provided an irrefutable argument why they went OT over Brock Bowers in the #NFLDraft:
— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) April 30, 2024
‘What are the problems that could really sidetrack the team moving forward? It became really clear like we’re going to get a player in Olu [Fashanu] that is highly… pic.twitter.com/olZcTvCy9R
Fashanu emerged as one of the top offensive lineman prospects in the draft, presenting the Jets with a chance to bolster their protection for Aaron Rodgers.
Rodgers’ 2023 season was marred by an Achilles tear in Week 1, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. This setback dashed the Jets’ playoff hopes, which had been buoyant for the first time in over a decade.
The 2024 season holds promise for the Jets, with Fashanu’s addition fortifying their offensive line. Coupled with other offensive acquisitions, there’s optimism for Rodgers to regain his form, contingent upon his recovery and ability to replicate his past performances.
At the very least, the New York Jets have improved their roster around Rodgers. Will it be enough to get back to the playoffs? We’ll just have to wait and see. Brock Bowers would have been fun to watch in New York, but the offensive line help was very needed.
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