New York Jets 2025 Draft Prospects for Key Players

New York Jets The 3-6 start highlighted needs in several key areas, from offensive line protection to defensive consistency and reliable play-calling options. Injuries and free agent departures loom on the horizon. To fill the gaps, New York will need a draft class that brings immediate players and depth across the board to position the team for success in 2025 and beyond.

Deone Walker: IDL, Kentucky Wildcats

With the potential departures of defensive linemen like Leki Fotu, Solomon Thomas and Javon Kinlaw, the Jets will likely prioritize adding a quality starter alongside the standout Quinnen Williams.

Enter Deon Walker.

At 6-foot-6 and 348 pounds, Walker is a disruptive force that requires double teams, opening up opportunities for teammates and often penetrating into backfields. His agility is remarkable for his size, allowing him to move through blocks, pressure defenders and control plays. Walker’s versatility allows him to occupy a variety of positions on the line, and his high motor coupled with reliable tackling ensures he is relentless in every game. He was named team captain as a sophomore and has leadership qualities that add to his value on and off the field.

Deone Walker’s physical presence and disruptive style make him an ideal player for the Jets’ defensive front, where his presence alongside Quinnen Williams could form a formidable interior duo. Williams and Walker are big linemen who can demand double teams, creating opportunities for forwards like Will McDonald and Jermaine Johnson, who is set to return from a torn Achilles in 2025. Walker and Williams occupy the blockers and disrupt plays at the line. If scrambled, McDonald and Johnson will have more freedom to exploit gaps and attack the quarterback from the outside. This formation enhances the Jets’ pass-rush potential, allowing their wingers to take advantage of one-on-one matchups while wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks.

Luther Bearden III: WR, Missouri Tigers

With veteran wide receiver Mike Williams set to become a free agent and uncertainty surrounding the futures of Allen Lazard and Davante Adams, both of whom could follow Aaron Rodgers in 2025, the Jets may be in need of fresh talent at wide receiver. Missouri Tigers standout wide receiver Luther Burden III fits that mold.

A former five-star recruit, Burden made a splash at Missouri with his explosive playmaking abilities, especially during his sophomore season where he totaled 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns on 86 catches. Burden is a dynamic athlete who has an electric first step, allowing him to get off the line instantly. His body control and agility make him a poor player in contested catching situations, while his compact frame and physical attributes allow him to play larger than his listed size. Burden’s speed, vision and contact balance make him a catching machine capable of turning short throws into chunk plays. He also brings value to special teams as a punt returner, which adds another layer of versatility to him.

By putting Burden next to Garrett Wilson, the Jets would have a young, dynamic pairing with a complementary skill set. While Wilson stretches the defense vertically and works on the perimeter, Burden’s ability to create in space and score after the catch can add unpredictability to the offense. His versatility could allow the Jets to use him in both the slot and in scheduled games, giving them an offensive weapon to fill any gaps in the receiving corps.

Jonah Savaiinaya: OT/OG, Arizona Wildcats

With Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses potentially leaving after 2024 and offensive line play being a weak spot for the Jets this season, addressing the line issue will be a priority in 2025. Jonah Savaiina could be a valuable addition. The Honolulu native proved his versatility and reliability at Arizona, starting at right guard as a freshman and then moving to right tackle as a sophomore. His ability to hold down both positions while allowing just two sacks on the season highlights his adaptability and effectiveness in pass protection. Like 2024 first-round draft pick Olu Fashanu, Savaiinaa’s versatility could stabilize the Jets’ lineup even if players change positions or new faces join the squad.

Savaiina’i’s quick release, agility and high football IQ make him effective against difficult defensive schemes. His arm strength and awareness allow him to neutralize bull rushers and execute tricks and blitzes. While he sometimes struggles with balance and overexertion, his overall pass protection skills are exceptional. While his run blocking could use some improvement, especially when stretching space, his size and blocking ability make him a potent offensive asset. With the versatility of Savaiina’i and Fashanu, the Jets will be able to better protect their quarterback while providing stability to an offensive line in need of reliable talent.

Jay Higgins: ILB, Iowa Hawkeyes

Injuries and a lack of depth at center half have plagued the Jets defense this season, making it clear they need to strengthen the position. With veteran CJ Mosley nearing the end of his contract and Jamien Sherwood, who has excelled this year, set to become a free agent, there is a pressing need for an influential midfielder to learn under Mosley and eventually take over. take on the starting role. Iowa’s Jay Higgins could be just what the Jets need.

Higgins, a standout from Indianapolis, Indiana, became the heart of Iowa’s 2023 defense, setting a school record for total tackles with 171 and earning first-team All-American honors. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, Higgins is a reliable tackler who rarely misses, making him a reliable last line of defense against the run. His coverage skills are good for an inside linebacker, putting him in a good position to be a nickel contributor. Higgins’ leadership and awareness on the field make him a natural field general, as evidenced by his role as team captain, while his football IQ allows him to anticipate plays and be in the right place at the right time.

While Higgins lacks elite bulk and straight-line speed, his instincts and reliability as a tackler make him a prospect who can contribute right away on special teams while learning the fundamentals of pro defense. For the Jets, Higgins could be a natural backup to Mosley with the potential to become a starter. His presence would provide much-needed depth and stability at the position, bolstering the Jets’ defensive core and filling a critical hole in the linebacker rotation.

Colston Loveland: TE Michigan Wolverines

With Tyler Conklin and Kenny Yeboah both set to become free agents, the Jets could be in serious need of reinforcements in 2025. Michigan’s Colston Loveland offers a skill set that could provide an immediate boost. Known for his combination of size, athleticism and hands, Loveland consistently plays both the receiver and blocker positions. His 6-foot-5 frame, quick footwork, and crisp route running make him a matchup nightmare for both linebackers and defensive backs. Loveland’s ability to gain yards after the catch (YAC) adds a dynamic element that will bolster a Jets offense in need of more explosive playmakers.

As a versatile pass catcher, Loveland would fit well alongside young Jets star Garrett Wilson, giving the team a reliable target in the middle of the field. His high football IQ and advanced spatial awareness allow him to excel at creating separation and running precise routes. While Loveland is still working on improving his blocking consistency and adding strength to maintain leverage, his overall profile as a dual-threat tight end makes him a valuable addition. With Loveland on the roster, the Jets will have a versatile offensive weapon who can stretch the defense, help take pressure off Wilson and add another layer to their passing game.