Corey Davis could change New York Jets’ 2021 NFL draft plan

Corey Davis New York Jets

The New York Jets signed former Tennessee Titans wide receiver Corey Davis to a three-year, $37 million deal on Monday, locking up one of the top free agents to fill one of the roster’s most glaring holes.

Davis enjoyed a career-year in 2020 when he finished with 65 catches for 984 yards and five touchdowns in just 14 games (12 starts), showing off the skill set that made him a top-five pick in the 2017 NFL draft.

Now locked-in as the Jets’ go-to-guy, Davis, 26, should enjoy the most productive stretch of his career in New York.

With Davis in the fold, the Jets can turn their attention to other positions in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Quarterback is still in play at No. 2 overall, although an argument can be made that Sam Darnold finally has the kind of alpha playmaker he’s so desperately needed over his first three seasons in the league. Still, if New York isn’t sold on Darnold’s long-term outlook, they could select his successor with the second pick in either Zach Wilson (BYU) or Justin Fields (Ohio State).

There were a few mock drafts that had the Jets targeting a wide receiver at No. 2 overall, including Mel Kiper Jr. who at one point had New York selecting Alabama’s Devonta Smith. But with such a steep investment in Davis, it’s unlikely they’ll go in that direction.

It’s even doubtful that they’ll select a wide receiver with their second first-round pick, No. 23 overall. It’s doubtful any of the premier wideouts will be on the board at that point anyway. Instead, the Jets will have a great opportunity to beef up the offensive line with one of the many tackle prospects who have mid-to-late first-round grades in this year’s class.

Davis is a great signing by the Jets who will inject life into their otherwise limp passing game. He also frees up important draft capital that can be invested into other weak areas of the roster. It’s a win-win.

Bryan Perez

Bryan is the founder of Pro Football Draft. His work has been featured on The Draft Network, NBC Sports and USA Today. Former CFL scout.

Follow him on Twitter: @BryanPerezNFL