Taking Flight, Part Two: Grading the Rest of the Class

Breece Hall. Photo Credit: Peter G. Aiken / Getty Images.

Following my exclusive coverage on the Jets three first round picks, here's my take and recap on the rest of the Jets 2022 draft class.

Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State

Most had Breece rated as the best running back, but I had Kenneth Walker, III rated as first, then Breece as a close second. An All Big 12 and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year two consecutive years, Breece was a touchdown machine at Iowa State, leading the nation in rushing in 2020 (1,572 yards) and 21 touchdowns, and was 7th last year with 1,472 yards and 21 touchdowns, which tied for third. He set an FBS record with 24 straight games with a touchdown.

His paced running style and versatility will be a perfect fit for the zone blocking scheme that the Jets use, and I think Hall with (Michael) Carter in the backfield will be a nightmare for defenses for years to come.

Grade: A+

Jeremy Ruckert (88). Photo Credit: Kyle Robertson/ Columbus Dispatch/ USA Today.

Jeremy Ruckert, TE, Ohio State

Getting back to that third round pick, he selected Jeremy Ruckert, a tight end from Ohio State. I found this one to be a head-scratcher, not because of the player himself because there's a lot to like about his game and attitude. Ruckert was considered the top TE in his class on some boards, he was on an offense that was - and still is - loaded with wide receivers, so not a lot of passes were thrown his way, but he made the most of the ones that came his way. He's a consummate teammate, willing to contribute in other areas, willing to sacrifice personal numbers for the sake of the team.

The problem I had with the pick is that they acquired two productive tight ends in free agency in CJ Uzomah and Tyler Conklin, who came off career years, plus, I was hoping that would've addressed the linebacker spot with that pick.

Grade: C

Max Mitchell (74). Photo Credit: John Korduner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images.

Max Mitchell, OL, Louisiana

I like the Max Mitchell pick, an offensive lineman from Louisiana University. Seen more as a project, he provides needed depth and versatility at the position - he can play both tackle spots and left guard - which I was hoping Douglas addressed given the constant injuries at the position last season.

Grade: B+

Micheal Clemons (2). Photo Credit: Stephen Lew/ USA Today.

Micheal Clemons, DE, Texas A&M

Last, but not least, he selected Micheal Clemons, defensive end from Texas A&M. From what I've seen from him, he's not the most athletic or agile player, but he's consistent, productive, and plays with a violent streak, which fits right in with the Jets defensive scheme. Some questioned this pick, and there was an off-field issue, which is understandably a concern, and hopefully he's learned from it, and it won't happen again, but outside of that, to me, you can never have enough pass rushers.

Grade: B

Although there were some other players I had in mind - no disrespect to the guys they selected - I think, for the most part, Joe nailed this draft. The only thing that kept me from giving this draft an A+ is picking a tight end when they have a more pressing need at linebacker. Overall, I think he picked a group of guys that will be a major part in turning this team around. Let's get it!

Overall Grade: A