When it comes to the NFL draft, the New York Jets have historically been one of the league’s most unpredictable teams.

Looking ahead to this year’s draft, which is less than three weeks away, the Jets can take several different approaches.

While Ohio State edge defender Arvell Reese is the heavy favorite at No. 2, beyond that selection is where things get interesting for the Jets.

Owning the 16th, 33rd, and 44th overall picks, Gang Green not only has the assets to change the trajectory of their future but also to shake up the draft board.

Here’s a name you almost never hear tied to the Jets, but one they could certainly grab at No. 16, stunning the draft world.

Jets taking Kadyn Proctor would flip the draft on its head

Yes, folks, it sounds a little out there at first, but bear with me.

The Jets’ offensive line is already one of their strong suits, but that doesn’t mean they should stop adding up front. Everything on offense runs through the line, and there is a case to be made that the Jets’ goal is to overwhelm teams with size and power on their line.

That’s where Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor enters the picture.

At 6-foot-7 and 352 pounds, Proctor played as Alabama’s starting left guard throughout all three of his NCAA seasons. He earned Freshman All-American honors in 2023 before compiling a consensus All-American campaign as a junior. In 2025, he posted an outstanding 85.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked fourth-best among 251 qualified FBS tackles (min. 500 snaps).

Where he projects at the next level differs depending on who you ask.

Some teams view him as a tackle at the next level, while others view him as a smoother fit on the inside at guard. If the Jets fall into the latter camp, the fit makes sense. Proctor could slot in as a massive tone-setter next to Olu Fashanu on the left side. Then, the team would slide Dylan Parham to center, where he has NFL experience, and push Josh Myers to the bench.

Is it a likely scenario? Probably not, but it certainly isn’t crazy.

The Jets have more pressing needs, particularly a pass catcher. However, if Proctor is the highest player on their board, it would be tough to fault the Jets for continuing to invest in the trenches.

And with the expectation that Gang Green will use a first-round pick on a franchise QB next season, building the strongest possible front is crucial, as protection drastically impacts a young QB’s early success.