Do the numbers support the notion that Charlotte product Cameron Clark could develop into a starter for the New York Jets?
After picking up a franchise left tackle in Mekhi Becton with the 11th pick, the Jets needed to add some developmental talent for the interior of their offensive line later on in the draft. Joe Douglas checked that box with the 129th overall pick, taking Cameron Clark out of Charlotte.
Clark played left tackle for the 49ers, but it is universally agreed upon that he is best suited kicking inside to guard at the next level. Many (myself included) see Clark as a great value at No. 129 after he dominated Conference USA.
Could the Jets have found another long-term component upfront way down in the fourth round?
Let’s take a look at the numbers behind Clark’s career at Charlotte.
Positives
Pristine pass protection
Clark was an immovable object for the 49ers. He allowed only five pressures (0 sacks, 1 hit, 4 hurries) over 354 snaps in protection, a rate of 1.4% that ranked seventh-best in the nation out of 380 qualified tackles (98th percentile).
Progression
Clark’s numbers in protection improved over his final three seasons.
- 2017: 16 pressures, 317 protection snaps (5.0%)
- 2018: 15 pressures, 395 protection snaps (3.8%)
- 2019: 5 pressures, 354 protection snaps (1.4%)