NFL Draft 2012: Jets' Bold Trade for Stephen Hill Just What Sanchez Needed

The New York Jets made a bold move to trade up into the top half of the second round in the 2012 NFL Draft to select wide receiver Stephen Hill—a brilliant move that is just what the doctor ordered for Mark Sanchez.

From the Jets, via Twitter:

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The #Jets have traded up to get Stephen Hill WR from GT with the 2nd round 43rd overall pick. RT to welcome Stephen.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) April 27, 2012

"

The Jets needed a big, fast receiver to pair with Santonio Holmes after Plaxico Burress' departure.

The team had expressed interest in possibly bringing Braylon Edwards back into the fold (Bob Glauber, via Twitter), and I had previously been against the idea, but I can see how bringing him back could be a good thing in light of this selection of Hill.

Whether they bring Burress back or not, the Jets now have a big, tall receiver who can burn up the turf with blazing speed. He will need to be schooled in the art of route-running, but his raw talent alone will cause teams to fear him on the perimeter.

This is a crucial aspect that's been missing from the Jets' offense for a couple of years now. Without a true vertical threat, opposing teams have been able to key in on the intermediate routes, clogging up running lanes and making life miserable for Jets running backs.

It has also made Sanchez's life a living hell, as he has had to deal with constant pressure due to the fact that teams didn't have to commit two safeties deep—allowing them to send blitzes without fear of getting beaten over the top.

Hill's addition to their lineup will change things for the better for Sanchez and the entire offense.

Sanchez won't face as many blitzes, he'll have more room underneath coverage to find open crossing routes, and he will find his rhythm again for the first time in a year and a half.

It's about time they did something good for the Sanchize, don't you agree?

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