It is impossible for NFL fans to know who they should believe at this time of year. Nonetheless, it is fascinating to unpack all of the conflicting reports/rumors and see which ones end up closest to the truth.
On Sunday, ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported that the New York Jets (along with the New York Giants) are “among the teams believed to be interested in moving up” to the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. Later in the day, SNY’s Connor Hughes shared intel to the contrary.
Citing sources he touched base with at the NFL Scouting Combine who met with the Jets this offseason, Hughes says the collective belief is that “a veteran (Justin Fields, Carson Wentz, Marcus Mariota), Day 2 rookie and Tyrod Taylor” is a more likely combination for New York than trading up for the first overall selection.
To be clear, neither ESPN nor SNY reported that the Jets will do either of these things. They each used careful wording that avoided presenting “beliefs” (via educated guesses from informed parties) as certainties.
ESPN’s report merely says the Jets are “interested” in moving up. And, yes, it’s likely that New York has called Tennessee about moving up – many teams probably have, even if they had no interest in moving. Calling Tennessee is worthwhile simply to gauge the market and feel out the lay of the land. Additionally, it is possible that sources from the Titans might be spilling out rumors of supposedly “interested” teams (framing mere touch-base calls as “interest”) to increase demand for their pick.
SNY’s report made sure to note that the Jets’ opinion could change over the next 53 days as they continue to evaluate the top quarterback prospects, Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. Hughes only said that sources believe it is “more likely” New York goes the route of Taylor, a veteran free agent, and a Day 2 rookie – not that it is expected or certain.
Buckle up, folks. The source-offs will only grow fiercer as the draft inches closer.
