The New York Jets are in desperate need of a cornerback. Their front seven has been playing strong all season. The Jets are one of the top teams in rush defense, but their secondary has been getting attacked. Trumaine Johnson has been a huge disappointment this season, which leaves a major hole. Come the 2020 NFL Draft, the Jets could be in the market for help.
New York will most likely land a top 10 pick in the draft. There will obviously be elite talent on the board and cornerback may not be on their priority list that early. In the second or third rounds, hidden gems are found. In this case, the Jets might land a player who is not a hidden gem, but a player who has some concerns — Michigan's Lavert Hill.
Hill was selected as a First-Team All- Big Ten member for the second straight season. He was Michigan's No. 1 cornerback who finished with three interceptions and 11 pass breakups in 12 games. Hill is a player who can do it all. He has played both on the outside and in the slot. He is an attractive option in a nickel role because of his quickness and experience.
During his time at Michigan, Hill earned a reputation of being a strong cover man. He rarely over pursues and keeps himself on the hip of receivers. Michigan also used Hill in blitzes from the corner. He is an attractive option but like most players, there are some concerns.
Is Hill a Finished Product?
Hill is an average tackler. This is partially because of his size, which is the main reason he may fall in the draft. Listed at just 5-foot-11 and 182 pounds, Hill's length could work against him during his first few seasons. He will bulk up once in the league and that will help his cause.
The bottom line is that the Jets need help at the position. They also need help on the offensive line, which is where they might go with their first-round pick. In the later rounds, New York could look to add some corner depth. If Hill is available in the second or third round, he would be a good option given his experience playing the position. Hill played a ton of reps while at Michigan at many different positions.
The second round has not been kind to the Jets in recent years. Here is their chance to turn their luck around and take a strong coverage corner.
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