2011 NFL DRAFT: NY JETS overview

The NFL lockout was temporarily halted for a short period of time and players were allowed back into team training facilities early last week. By the weekend however, the ruling was appealed and the lockout continued. Despite the uncertainty of if there will be a 2011 NFL season, the NFL draft went on as scheduled. Here is a list of the Jets picks and an analysis of the pick:

Muhammad Wilkerson

1st round: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple University 
This defensive end was thought by many experts to be drafted in the top 10 of this years draft. He had a very successful season at Temple University and  slipped to the Jets at the 30th pick. He will be very useful teaming up with veteran Kris Jenkins on the defensive line.

3rd round: Kenrick Ellis, NT, Hampton University
The Jets traded away their second round pick last year so their second pick came in the third round when they picked nose tackle Kenrick Ellis. This 6-5 346 pound monster was number 35 of the jets scouting report so when he fell to pick 94 in the draft they swooped in and drafted him to help clog up the middle and stop the run. He has had multiple off the field issues in college but if he can stay out of trouble he should be a great fit in NY. 

4th round: Bilal Powell, RB, Louisville
The Jets already have two young backs in Shonn Greene and Joe McKnight as well as future hall of famer LaDainian Tomlinson in the backfield so drafting another running back was a questionable move for the Jets because they will probably only be able to keep three on roster. Powell is a one-cut runner who can grow in time as a Thomas Jones type back

5th round: Jeremy Kerley, WR, TCU
This versatile receiver was a big part in the Horned Frogs offense last season. He is an elusive runner who can also line up in the backfield and even throw the ball. He will be very useful for the Jets as a slot receiver and can fill in for Brad Smith who is a free agent.

7th round: Greg McElroy, QB, Alabama
McElroy had a pretty successful career leading the Crimson Tide at quarterback. He is a very smart and talented quarterback who will look to take the number 2 quarterback position from long time backup Kellen Clemens.

7th round: Scottie McKnight, WR, Colorado

Scottie McKnight

The Jets used their last pick on undersized wide receiver Scottie McKnight. He is the all time leading receiver for Colorado however he was not projected to be selected in the draft. What makes this pick special is McKnight is best friends with Jets QB Mark Sanchez. The two have been friends since they were 8 years old and Sanchez threw to McKnight at his pro day. Sanchez and his family were with McKnight as his family at McKnight's home when the Jets announced the pick.