New York Jets
Player Focus
Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Olu Fashanu, a standout from Gonzaga College High School, earned first-team All-WCAC honors in his junior and senior years. At Penn State, he became a key player, earning Second-team All-Big Ten and participating in the 2023 Rose Bowl. In his senior season, Fashanu was a William V. Campbell Trophy finalist and allowed zero sacks in 266 pass-blocking snaps. He earned Walter Camp Second Team All-American honors and was named team captain in 20
NFL Team Fit
The New York Jets drafted Olumuyiwa Fashanu in the first round, addressing their urgent need for a solid left tackle. Fashanu’s exceptional pass protection skills fit perfectly into the Jets’ scheme, providing critical support for their quarterback. Despite some rawness in run blocking, his ability to anchor the line and manage edge rushers makes him an immediate asset. Fashanu’s potential to improve in the run game further bolsters his value as a franchise-caliber blind-side protector.
Fantasy Impact
The Jets drafted OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu at No. 11 overall. He is expected to start immediately, potentially at either tackle position, and eventually move to left tackle. Fashanu’s presence should enhance the Jets’ offensive line, improving protection and boosting the fantasy value.
Fashanu can excel in the NFL by leveraging his strong pass protection skills to secure the Jets’ left tackle position. He should focus on refining his run-blocking technique to improve consistency. Emphasizing quick stance transitions and proper footwork will enhance his performance. With his natural talent and dedication, Fashanu can become a reliable, franchise-caliber blind-side protector.
Expert Opinions
The New York Jets selected Penn State OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu with the 11th pick to protect Aaron Rodgers, passing on Georgia TE Brock Bowers. Bert Bainbridge (NorthJersey.com) graded it A-, USA TODAY gave a B+, CBS Sports a B, Pro Football Network an A, and SNY an A. Analysts praised the decision to bolster the offensive line over adding another offensive weapon.
Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky
Malachi Corley played college football at Western Kentucky. Originally recruited as a cornerback, he switched to wide receiver and excelled. In 2022, he had a standout season with 1,293 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning first-team All-CUSA honors. He repeated his All-CUSA performance in 2023 with 984 yards and 11 touchdowns.
NFL Team Fit
Malachi Corley, drafted by the Jets at No. 65, fits well as an underneath outlet in their offensive scheme. His strong, running back-like frame and reliable hands will help the Jets in short-yardage and screen plays. The Jets need a receiver with his yards-after-catch ability, filling a crucial role in their receiving corps. While he needs to refine his route-running, Corley’s physicality and catch radius are assets.
Fantasy Impact
Malachi Corley, drafted by the New York Jets, offers potential in creating yards after the catch, but concerns linger due to his play style resembling a running back. With doubts about the Jets’ offensive creativity, his fantasy impact might be limited despite being a third-round pick. Given his smaller stature and the competition for playing time, exercise caution when considering him for fantasy purposes in his rookie year.
Malachi Corley can thrive in the NFL by focusing on his strengths. He should capitalize on his running back-like frame and reliable hands to excel in short-yardage and screen plays. Improving his route-running finesse and spatial awareness will enhance his versatility. Gaining experience and refining his technique will help him transition from a situational player to a reliable starter.
Expert Opinion
The Jets traded up to draft WR Malachi Corley from Western Kentucky, likened to Deebo Samuel for his yards-after-catch ability. GM Joe Douglas praised Corley’s violent playing style. CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso noted Corley’s “insane contact balance” and his potential to enhance the Jets’ run game. Aaron Rodgers showed approval of the pick on social media.
Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin
Braelon Allen, a running back for the New York Jets, played college football at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Initially recruited as a defensive player, he transitioned to running back and excelled on the field. Allen showcased his talent with notable achievements, including being named the Las Vegas Bowl MVP in 2021 and earning three Second-team All-Big Ten honors during his college career.
NFL Team Fit
The Jets selected Braelon Allen, a physical running back from Wisconsin, in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Known for his strength and downhill running style, Allen led the Badgers in rushing for three seasons. His ability to punish defenders and contribute in pass protection could complement Breece Hall, providing the Jets with a well-rounded backfield. Allen’s addition adds depth to the Jets’ running game and aligns with their focus on bolstering offensive talent.
Fantasy Impact
The Jets drafted RB Braelon Allen with the 134th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, his fantasy value is diminished as he sits behind star running back Breece Hall. Allen’s role is primarily as a handcuff to Hall, with limited standalone value, especially considering competition from Izzy Abanikanda. With limited opportunity and stiff competition, his fantasy outlook is subdued unless injuries occur or roles change significantly
Path to Success
Allen’s downhill running style and versatility in pass protection align with the Jets’ need for a complementary back to Breece Hall. To find success in the NFL, Allen must adjust to the speed and complexity of the professional game while leveraging his physicality and well-rounded skill set. Collaborating with Hall and adapting to the Jets’ offensive scheme will be crucial for Allen to carve out a role and contribute effectively on the field.
Fantasy analyst Pat Fitzmaurice assesses Braelon Allen as a physically imposing runner drafted by the Jets. Despite lacking elite speed, Allen’s agility and early college productivity stand out. Concerns include occasional ball-security issues and limited pass-catching ability. With Breece Hall ahead, Allen’s immediate fantasy impact appears minimal, but his potential as a goal-line threat in dynasty leagues offers some long-term value, albeit with capped upside due to his pass-catching limitations.
Comparative Analysis
The Jets’ 2024 draft class boasts depth and talent, particularly at running back with Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis. While the selection of Allen adds power and depth behind star RB Breece Hall, Davis offers competition and versatility. Quarterback Jordan Travis provides a developmental option, bolstering depth post-Zach Wilson trade. Malachi Corley’s addition at wide receiver injects playmaking ability, enhancing the Jets’ offensive arsenal. Overall, this draft class exhibits a balanced focus on key fantasy positions, strengthening the team’s depth and potential for the
Conclusion
The Jets’ 2024 draft showcased potential immediate stars in offensive tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu, bolstering their line. Malachi Corley brings explosive playmaking ability at wide receiver, while Braelon Allen adds depth and power to their running back corps. Sleeper picks include quarterback Jordan Travis, offering long-term development, and Isaiah Davis, a dominant FCS rusher with special teams potential. Long-term prospects hinge on the development of these rookies and their contributions to the team’s success in the coming seasons.