Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets

The 2024 NFL Draft marked a pivotal moment for the New York Jets, as general manager Joe Douglas and his staff focused on filling critical roster gaps while building long-term depth—especially on offense and special teams. With seven total picks, the Jets targeted positions that had plagued them in 2023: a reliable slot receiver, a versatile offensive lineman, and a dynamic return specialist. Now, halfway through the 2024 season, analysts and fans are debating the early impact of these selections, with some rookies already earning key roles and others showing promise for the future. Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets breaks down each of the Jets’ draft picks, their contributions so far, and how this class could shape the team’s playoff aspirations for years to come.

Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets begins with the Jets’ first-round pick (15th overall): wide receiver Malik Washington from the University of Virginia, a slot specialist brought in to upgrade the passing game. Washington, known for his quickness (4.45 40-yard dash) and reliable hands (98 catches for 1,380 yards in 2023), was immediately inserted into the Jets’ offense as the primary slot receiver. Through 10 games, he’s hauled in 45 catches for 520 yards and three touchdowns, leading all NFL rookies in slot receptions. His most memorable moment came in Week 8, when he caught a 22-yard game-winning touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers with 28 seconds left against the Miami Dolphins. “Malik has been a revelation,” said Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. “He understands how to find soft spots in zone coverage, and he’s built a quick chemistry with Aaron. We knew he’d contribute early, but he’s exceeded our expectations.” Analysts agree, with Pro Football Focus grading Washington as the No. 3 rookie wide receiver in 2024, behind only top picks Marvin Harrison Jr. and Rome Odunze. For the Jets, Washington has solved a longstanding issue at slot receiver, where the team ranked 28th in yards per catch in 2023.

A key pick that’s flying under the radar is the Jets’ third-round selection (77th overall): offensive lineman Jason Brooks from Oklahoma, a versatile player who can play both guard and tackle. Brooks was initially expected to be a backup, but injuries to right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (knee) and right tackle Mekhi Becton (ankle) forced him into the starting lineup by Week 5. He’s since started six games at right guard, allowing just two sacks and three pressures—impressive numbers for a late-round rookie. What makes Brooks valuable is his adaptability: in Week 9, he shifted to right tackle for the final quarter against the New England Patriots, helping the Jets protect Rodgers during a game-tying drive. “Jason’s ability to play multiple positions is a game-changer,” said Jets offensive line coach John Benton. “In the NFL, you need linemen who can step in anywhere, and Jason has proven he can do that at a high level. He’s a smart kid who studies film relentlessly, and it shows on the field.” While Brooks may not have the highlight-reel plays of Washington, his steady performance has been critical to the Jets’ offensive consistency, especially in a division with tough defensive lines like the Bills and Patriots.

A critical aspect of Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets is the Jets’ fifth-round pick (148th overall): return specialist Devin Reed from Kansas State, who has already become a game-changer on special teams—and what it means for the current New York Jets’ field position battle. Reed, who returned four kickoffs for touchdowns in college, took over as the Jets’ primary kickoff and punt returner in Week 3. He’s since averaged 27.3 yards per kickoff return (ranking 4th in the NFL) and 11.5 yards per punt return (ranking 6th), including a 76-yard punt return touchdown in Week 6 against the Chicago Bears. His ability to flip field position has been invaluable: the Jets now rank 8th in average starting field position after kickoffs, up from 22nd in 2023. “Devin has given us a weapon we didn’t have last year,” said Jets special teams coordinator Brant Boyer. “When he touches the ball, you know something exciting could happen. He’s not just a returner—he’s a playmaker who can swing momentum in our favor.” For the New York Jets, Reed’s impact goes beyond stats: he’s energized the team and fans, with his touchdown returns becoming viral moments that boost morale. In a division where games are often decided by a single score, having a reliable return specialist like Reed could be the difference between making the playoffs and missing out.

Another important pick from the 2024 draft is the Jets’ seventh-round selection (225th overall): defensive tackle Eric Johnson Jr. from Missouri, an undrafted free agent signee who has exceeded all expectations as a rotational player—and how it supports the New York Jets’ defensive depth. Johnson, who wasn’t even projected to be drafted, earned a roster spot after a strong training camp, where he impressed coaches with his strength (32 reps on the bench press) and motor. Through 10 games, he’s played 25% of defensive snaps, recording 15 tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for loss. His best game came in Week 10 against the Buffalo Bills, where he sacked Josh Allen once and pressured him twice in limited action. “Eric is a classic example of why we never sleep on late-round picks or undrafted free agents,” said Jets defensive line coach Matt Raich. “He’s got a chip on his shoulder, and he plays every snap like it’s his last. He’s been a great addition to our rotation, keeping our starters fresh during long drives.” For the New York Jets, Johnson’s success is a testament to their scouting department’s ability to find hidden talent. It also provides critical depth at defensive tackle, where starters Quinnen Williams and Sheldon Rankins have dealt with minor injuries this season. Having a reliable backup like Johnson ensures the Jets’ defense doesn’t drop off when their stars need rest.

Wrapping up Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets is the broader significance of the 2024 draft class for the Jets’ future as a playoff contender. Unlike previous drafts, where the Jets focused on rebuilding, this class was designed to win now—with picks like Washington, Brooks, and Reed contributing immediately. Early returns suggest the strategy is working: the Jets are 6-4 halfway through the season, with a realistic chance to win the AFC East. What’s even more encouraging is the class’s long-term potential: Washington is under contract for four more years, Brooks for three, and Reed and Johnson for three—giving the Jets a core of young, affordable talent to build around. “This draft was about balancing immediate needs with future growth,” Douglas said in a recent interview. “We wanted players who could help us win now, but also grow with this team as we try to compete for championships. So far, they’ve done exactly that.” For the New York Jets, the 2024 draft could be remembered as the class that turned the franchise around—from a rebuilding team to a consistent playoff contender. As the season progresses, and more rookies get opportunities to contribute, the full impact of this draft will become clearer. Draft Recap and Impact Discussed for the New York Jets isn’t just about reviewing picks—it’s about celebrating a draft class that has already made a difference, and one that could define the Jets’ success for years to come.