The Jets are hoping that Ahmad Garnder can be the secret “Sauce” that turns their defense around.
New York used the fourth overall pick on the Cincinnatti product on Thursday, securing what it hopes is a No. 1, lockdown cornerback. Gardner is coming off a stellar three-year collegiate career, totaling 68 tackles, 16 defended passes, nine interceptions and 3.5 sacks over 33 games.
Gardner picked off three passes, defended four and registered three sacks last season.
As the fourth overall pick, the expectation is that Gardner will start from Day 1. The same goes for D.J. Reed, who the Jets signed in free agency. Bryce Hall and Brandin Echols, two young, outside corners who started all of the games they played in last year, will likely now fall down the depth chart.
With a cornerback on board, the Jets are still looking for a pass rusher, a wide receiver and, depending on the board, an offensive lineman with their early picks. New York has another first-round pick at No. 10.
