I thought I’d have some fun and join the draft day party with a first-round predictive mock.
Joe Belic’s Predictive Round 1 Mock Draft
Joe Belic offers his final RD 1 mock draft of 2021.
Author: Joe Belic
Joe Belic’s Final Mock Draft
Joe Belic offers his final mock draft before the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Mock drafts have emerged as the lifeblood of the draft season craze. Various scenarios can, in a heartbeat, not only make one feel uplifted but also discouraged. With that said, I hope this particular piece evokes the former and leaves you with an optimistic view of what’s to come. Happy draft day, everybody!
Dan Feeney: Is he a fit and what should Jets fans expect?
After losing out on Joe Thuney and apparently—for whatever reason—not being interested in Corey Linsley, Joe Douglas added some competition to the OL room this free agency season with the acquisition of Dan Feeney on a one-year deal worth up to $4.25 million. Feeney, a former third-round pick from Indiana University, has experience at both guard and center, fitting Douglas’ versatility profile.
Continue reading “Dan Feeney: Is he a fit and what should Jets fans expect?”
New York Jets – Up Front Review (Week 1)
Joe Belic reviews the New York Jets offensive line in week 1
I was forced to spend my Sunday afternoon hanging out with my friend Johnnie, Johnnie Walker, to be exact. The emotional distress of the season-opening loss subsided with my old buddy’s help, and I got my psyche prepared for yet another New York Jets repressed memory. Luckily for me, I am able to lock some of the painful games away; still, I empathize with my fellow Jets fans, who can’t.
New York Jets Offensive Line 2020 Preview
Joe Belic with a deep dive preview of the New York Jets offensive line…
The offensive line hasn’t received much praise this preseason, which isn’t surprising, considering it’s comprised of five players who have never played a single snap together. Strong play up front is established through continuity and, given the current state of the world coupled with an unorthodox training camp, the situation is disconcerting. However, the unit isn’t lost, and there is a chance the line meshes and functions cohesively—hopefully, prior to Week 1. Still, growing pains are expected, and with an opening schedule featuring dominant defensive fronts, the cause for concern remains justified.
Should the fanbase be worried?
Can they pull it together?
As presently constructed, does the offensive line have what it takes to protect Sam Darnold?
Personally, I’m hopeful, but the jury is still out…
New York Jets – The 2020 Predictions
Joe Belic with optimistic, yet realistic predictions for the New York Jets 2020 season
2020 hasn’t exactly been what many of us envisioned as we counted down the seconds heading into a new year. The Jets have a bumpy runway ahead of them, and all the turbulence around the Jamal Adams situation hasn’t made things smoother. I understand the skepticism surrounding the season and, yes, the roster remains a work in progress. Still, the addition of some key pieces along the offensive line, one of the best slot receivers in the league, a potential future HOF in the backfield, and the return of a specific dynamic playmaker keeps me hopeful. Amidst the turmoil, below are some optimistic yet realistic predictions for the upcoming season.
New York Jets NFL Draft Deep Dive – OL Cameron Clark
Joe Belic with a deep dive on New York Jets 4th round pick, OL Cameron Clark
The Jets had some question marks in terms of run blocking going into the draft but addressed the issue with two absolute maulers: Mekhi Becton and Cameron Clark.
Clark, the 129th overall pick in the fourth round of the NFL draft, played left tackle all four seasons for the UNC Charlotte 49ers, but it’s widely believed he’s best suited to play guard at the next level.
One part brain and one part brawn, Clark is the perfect combination of smarts and down-right nastiness; his sheer will to dominate defenders is at the heart of his game. A natural-born leader, his stacked resume includes Dean’s list, offensive MVP, and team captain. Extremely durable to boot, Clark started 31 straight games during his collegiate career.
New York Jets NFL Draft Deep Dive – La’Mical Perine
Joe Belic with a deep dive into New York Jets 4th round pick, La’Mical Perine featuring an interview with Matt Waldman of FootballGuys.Com
Running back La’Mical Perine proved Gators don’t sweat as he tweeted “Patience”—a virtue he possesses both on and off the field—while awaiting his turn to be chosen in the NFL Draft.
Many suspected Gang Green would address the position due to lack of depth and Le’Veon Bell’s questionable return for the 2021 season. With their first pick (No. 120) in the fourth round, the New York Jets selected the bruising runner out of Florida.
Initial Reaction – New York Jets Trade For CB Quincy Wilson
Joe Belic with initial reaction to the New York Jets trading for CB Quincy Wilson
Once again, Gang Green adds additional talent to its arsenal of defensive players by trading the 211th pick to the Indiana Colts for cornerback Quincy Wilson.
Initial Reaction – New York Jets Select RB La’Mical Perine
Initial reaction to the New York Jets selecting Florida RB La’Mical Perine
The first pick of day three for the New York Jets was Florida RB La’Mical Perine, as they continued to address offensive support for Sam Darnold. Perine will have a good opportunity to immediately become RB2 on a thin Jets depth chart that may also bring back Bilal Powell and is preparing for Le’Veon Bell to likely move on after the 2020 season. Perine’s athleticism does not jump off the page but he has a well rounded game and is a good pass catcher out of the backfield, which is a mandate for running back’s in today’s NFL.