The 2008 draft was a successful one for the Jets organization.  They brought in two guys in Vernon Gholston and Dustin Keller who will either earn starting jobs immediately or at a minimum, command significant playing time. 

Dwight Lowery will compete for playing time, especially in nickel situations and Marcus Henry will play a complementary role in short yardage situations.  Erik Ainge and Nate Garner will provide much needed depth at the QB and OT positions respectively.    Read More...

OT, Arkansas
6-6, 330

Nate Garner is an intriguing prospect.  He is also a difficult guy to get information on. It is rare for a player to get drafted yet fly under the radar of most draft publications.

After four seasons as a back up he finally got a chance to start last season and made the most of his opportunity. 

DE, Iowa
6-3, 290, 5.1-40

After signing sought after players like Jehuu Caulcrick and  Danny Woodhead as priority free agents, the Jets continued to mine for available talent after the draft and signed Bryan Mattison, DE from Iowa.

The thing I like most about Mattison is the disruption he causes to the offense.   Check out his line for his senior year: 12 starts with  61 tackles (11.5 for losses), nine sacks, four forced fumbles, four pass breakups and a blocked kick. 

RB, Chadron State
5-7, 198, 4.4-40

Danny Woodhead is a great story.  Very much like Wayne Chrebet, he is a player fans will want to root for.  He is undersized and played against a low level of competition at Chadron State in western Nebraska.

Despite the small-school background, Woodhead produced outstanding numbers.  As a freshman he gained 1840 yards and scored 25 TD’s.  He had five games where he gained 200+ yards and 1 game with 300 yards.

RB, Michigan St.
6-1, 255, 4.7-40

Jehuu Caulcrick is a big, powerful runner who will make an instant impact in the Jet’s short yardage offense.

In another nod to their difficulties in the red zone, the Jets acquired their third player who should help them near the goal line.