NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete first round after Week 13

The Jets have gotten better at several places this year, but linebacker is not one of them. Neither Josh Martin or Jordan Jenkins have been anything special for the Jets at the linebacker position this season. Both outside linebackers have struggled leaving the Jets with no choice to make an upgrade at the position. Outside of Demario Davis, the linebacking corps could use a total face lift.

Texas might not be back, but Malik Jefferson sure is. Jefferson spent a good portion of his sophomore season away from his natural position on the outside. When Tom Herman came to town he moved Jackson backed the the outside and the results speak for themselves. He’s nearly double last year’s tackle total and he’s found himself at the center of some big plays.

Jefferson leads the Longhorns in tackles and ranks among the leaders in the Big 12 in total tackles this season. He’s been a steady force for an improved Longhorn defense and will do the same for the Jets, provided they decide to draft the 6-foot-3, 240 pound versatile outside linebacker.

Jefferson picked up another 10-tackle day in a losing effort against Texas Tech on Thanksgiving week. That gives him 81 tackles on the season.