The success of the Green & White is predicated off good line play up front, as well as protecting the young franchise quarterback in Sam Darnold. Many can argue that offensive line was the most disappointing unit for the New York Jets in 2018. They finished 25th in PFF’s Offensive Line Power Rankings, and Kelvin Beachum finished with the highest individual grade of 66.0. During the draft, they addressed a need by selecting Chuma Edoga out of USC with the 92nd pick, which they traded up one spot with Minnesota to secure the former Trojan teammate of Darnold.
According to Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller, 10 teams had taken Edoga off of their draft boards, saying he was “lazy” with “bad drive”, so the risk is clearly there. If he is able to overcome the question marks, and thrive under new offensive line coach Frank Pollack, he may have a starting spot on the roster. Head coach Adam Gase said Edoga is slated to start as a backup at right tackle behind Brandon Shell, who is rehabbing from a knee injury he suffered late last season. During training camp, Edoga needs to show the coaches why he was a top 100 selection and he could be a potential starter by the first quarter of the season. If he fails to beat out Shell, he can be the sixth man on the offensive line, providing a stable replacement when the inevitable injury occurs. The Jets may also want to try him out at center if the Harrison experiment fails.
Long term, Edoga looks to be the in house replacement to veteran left tackle Kelvin Beachum, who is expected to be a free agent after the season. His chemistry with New York’s signal caller will help him, but it is ultimately up to him to come in and fight for a starting role. The Jets have two question marks with both their third round selections, but Chuma Edoga and Jachai Polite could make this draft class look really good for Maccagnan if they bloom in the system and live up to their potential.
