New York Jets 2025 Day 2 NFL Draft Recap
NFL.com gave the New York Jets an “A” grade for the picks they made on the second day of the 2025 NFL Draft. After selecting Missouri Offensive Tackle Armand Membou in the first round, the Jets continued building their roster by choosing LSU Tight End Mason Taylor and Florida State cornerback Azareye’h Thomas.
Mason Taylor and Azareyeh Thomas Selected
NFL.com graded the New York Jets an “A” for their picks on the second day of the 2025 NFL Draft. The Jets chose Taylor in the second round. The son of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor brings size, agility, and a strong football background. Analysts praised his ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties, fulfilling a critical team need.
The Jets selected Thomas, a cornerback from Florida State, in the third round. However, during examinations, his 40-yard time of 4.58 seconds caused concern. Scouts were intrigued by Thomas’s strong presence at the line of scrimmage and his ability to cover in man-to-man. A secondary that already features the exceptional Ahamd “Sauce” Gardner is strengthened by his acquisition.
However, several observers questioned whether drafting a cornerback was the smartest choice given the team’s current depth at the position. Wide receiver and defensive tackle were seen as bigger priorities, raising discussions about whether the Jets addressed their most pressing needs with this pick.
Jets Build Tougher Team Identity
Head Coach Aaron Glenn and General Manager Darren Mougey emphasized toughness and resilience throughout the offseason and heading into the draft. Some of these choices reflect the plan they have of creating toughness, physicality, violence, aggression, and resilience as a team.
New York continued its tradition of acquiring young players who can contribute and assume accountability. Such a shift is important for the team, as in the previous years the leadership used to focus on superstars rather than on long-term values.
However, some people opined that a preoccupation with body characteristics might be done at the cost of ignoring technique and position requirements The decision to pass on higher-ranked prospects at positions of need has become a point of discussion among fans and analysts alike.
Draft Decisions Raise Key Questions
Many analysts thought Thomas a second-round talent, making his third-round selection a good value for the Jets. There were positives with his physical style and how he fit in the defensive system. For his part, the Jets coaching staff, especially in the secondary, are expected to develop Thomas’ skills accordingly.
Still, the surprise began during this draft. The Jets wanted Thomas over the available players at wide receiver and defensive tackle, despite the fact they needed more help in those two areas. Wide Receivers Jaylin Noel and Safeties like Xavier Watts remained on the board at the time.
Furthermore, the Jets did not select any defensive tackles, despite the position being regarded as deep in this year’s class. At wide receiver, the Jets later selected Georgia’s Arian Smith, a player recognized for his elite speed but noted for concerns about his hands. Smith’s many drops during the previous season only intensified the topic of discussion as to whether he is the right choice to address the team’s wide receiver issue. All these strategic decisions will have to start being examined during the training camp and into 2025.
Final Thoughts
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jets remained faithful to their vision, selecting tough and long-term players. By their choices, fans and analysts alike can only wait intently to see how their selections will act out on the field.
