The New Orleans Saints’ pass rusher discussed his transition to New Orleans with Woody Wommack of Yahoo Sports, following stints with Washington and San Francisco last season. Chase represented New Balance during the interview.
While the possibility of selecting a playmaker was on the table, the Jets ultimately opted for a different route, selecting Penn State tackle Olu Fashanu over Georgia’s standout tight end, Brock Bowers, after Rome Odunze was chosen by the Bears with the ninth pick. This decision sparked some controversy and frustration among fans who believed the Jets mishandled their pick, with many hoping for a touchdown-scoring addition to the team.
However, this criticism is unfounded. The Jets addressed a pressing need by selecting a tackle, which will undoubtedly improve their performance both in the upcoming season and in the long term.
It’s important to remember the challenges the Jets faced last season, particularly regarding their offensive line, which was exposed by Aaron Rodgers’ injury. This issue persisted throughout training camp, prompting Robert Saleh’s impassioned outburst during the team’s joint practices with the Panthers, as depicted on “Hard Knocks.” To address these concerns, the Jets made significant moves in free agency, acquiring Tyron Smith, John Simpson, and Morgan Moses, while also welcoming back Alijah Vera-Tucker and Joe Tippmann.
On paper, this revamped offensive line appears strong. However, there are uncertainties surrounding the durability of key players like Vera-Tucker, Moses, and Smith, all of whom have dealt with injuries or declining performance in recent years. In the event of injuries, the Jets cannot afford a repeat of last season’s struggles, which is why drafting Fashanu, known for his exceptional pass-blocking skills, was a prudent move. He provides insurance for the present season and offers a long-term solution for the team’s offensive line needs beyond 2024.
Although the Jets explored the possibility of trading up in the draft, they were unable to secure a deal with teams that had selected receivers, as those teams were unwilling to trade their picks. Consequently, the Jets made a strategic decision to prioritize their future by selecting Fashanu, ensuring both present protection for their quarterback and stability for the seasons to come.
