Justin Fields: Mentor or QB1?

The New York Jets have named Justin Fields as their new QB1, but that doesn't mean they're not considering drafting a quarterback in the upcoming NFL draft. In fact, the Jets are one of only four teams that have used three first-round picks on offensive linemen since 2020, and they may be looking to add another quarterback to the mix.

Fields, for his part, is open to teaching a rookie QB, but he's not interested in talking about the possibility of the Jets drafting a quarterback. "I don't really like to answer rhetorical questions," he said this week, commenting on how he would react if the Jets draft a quarterback. "I'm willing to teach, but I'm not really interested in rhetorical questions."

The Jets' quarterback decision could hinge on the new administration's evaluation of 2024 fifth-round pick Jordan Travis, who sat out last season because of a horrific lower-leg injury in college. Coach Aaron Glenn said Travis was a "pretty damn good player" at Florida State, but he stopped short of saying Travis will be cleared for OTA practices next month. "If he's ready to play, he's going to compete," Glenn said.

With 11 days to go before the draft, the top candidates for the Jets' pick at No. 7 are tackles Will Campbell (LSU) and Armand Membou (Missouri) and tight end Tyler Warren (Penn State). This is based on conversations with league sources. The ESPN draft predictor says Membou is the most likely choice, followed by linebacker Jalon Walker (Georgia) and running back Ashton Jeanty (Boise State).

The Jets are also keeping close tabs on edge rusher Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M). They met at his pro day and have stayed in touched. Glenn, of course, is a former Texas A&M star. ESPN draft analyst Field Yates called Stewart a "fascinating" prospect, "the most interesting player in the draft."

The Jets are in good shape on the edge, with Will McDonald IV and Jermaine Johnson, but you can never have too many edge rushers, right? And let's not forget, Johnson is coming back from Achilles surgery.

The Jets are also in the market for a safety, with incumbent Tony Adams signing his RFA tender ($3.3 million) to secure his return. He, Andre Cisco and Isaiah Oliver are the only experienced safeties on the roster, making it a draft need. No fewer than four safeties have made top-30 visits, most notably Jaylen Reed (Penn State), who attended the same high school as Gardner in Detroit.

Fields is excited to reunite with former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson, who the Jets signed as a free agent in March. "It's awesome. When I saw him, it's really like the old days. I don't think our relationship has skipped a beat. I'm definitely excited to play with him," Fields said.