Jets strengthen front 7 by selecting Darron Lee

The New York Jets have selected linebacker Darron Lee out of Ohio State in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft on Thursday.

An outstanding athlete, Lee should immediately fit into head coach Todd Bowles' aggressive scheme. The former Ohio State product demonstrates excellent pass-rushing instincts and can also be disguised in coverage.

Boasting great straight-line speed, Lee gravitates towards the ball and is explosive off the snap. His diagnostic ability is top-notch and he flies downhill in run support.

Although he's slightly undersized for the position, Lee does an outstanding job of disengaging from blocks. With the potential to add weight to his frame, Lee figures to be a potent every-down linebacker in the NFL.

Darron Lee Bio

Position: LB
School: Ohio State
College Experience: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 6-1
Weight: 232 lbs.

Strengths

• Top-tier athlete for the position, giving him the versatility to line up both at a traditional linebacker spot and split out in coverage.
• A rare linebacker prospect who should immediately establish himself as an impact player in pass defense.
• Shows instincts to make quick reads as a running play develops in front of him, wasting little movement to get downhill and make a play on the ball.
• Flashes ability to evade blockers at the point of attack with quickness.
• Combination of explosiveness and closing speed make him an effective blitzer when lined up off the ball.

Weaknesses

• Would ideally need to add size to his frame to maintain an every-down role at the next level.
• Tendency to get overpowered in the running game will only be magnified in the NFL.
• Relatively inconsistent with finishing tackles.

Combine Results