The New York Jets will have to keep medicals in mind with these prospects
As the 2024 NFL Draft gets closer, information begins to come out rapidly.
In an article from Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, multiple draft prospects linked to the New York Jets were mentioned as being medically flagged by teams.
Breer mentioned that LSU wide receivers Brian Thomas and Malik Nabers were both flagged for having issues with their left shoulders. Breer states, “The risk here is considered relatively minimal—in both cases, there’s a chance the player may have to have the shoulder surgically repaired after the 2024 season.”
Another player mentioned was Washington offensive lineman Troy Fautanu, who is said to have a “knee issue.”
Breer wrote that the versatile offensive lineman’s knee “shouldn’t be a problem in the short term, but could wind up impacting his longevity in the pros (though his high football character is a factor in making teams feel like he’ll do all he can to take care of it, and give himself the best chance).”
It’s interesting this information leaked when it did. Draft information can always be tricky to discern when looking at the time and reason it was released.
However, the information provided by Breer could shape an aspect of the Jets’ draft strategy.
Nabers and Thomas Jr. should not have their stock affected much if the Jets see their medicals as clear. They are two of the best receivers in the draft, and New York would likely be thrilled to land either of them.
The more interesting factor is Fautanu’s health. If the Jets see his long-term stability as an issue, they may pivot toward other offensive linemen or another position altogether. On the other hand, the Washington product could now be a prime trade-down target for the team if they move out of their pick.
In three days, the Jets will have their chance to make their first-round selection. Until then, reports like this one will leave people pondering how the team will operate on Thursday night.
