Devin Smith to New York Jets: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

After adding the best defensive player in the draft in the first round, the New York Jets went offense with their second selection, taking Ohio State wide receiver Devin Smith. 

Smith is far from the most complete wideout in the draft, but he is perhaps the most explosive. He boasts incredible in-game speed and knows how to use it to make an impact. He was among the most dangerous deep threats in the college game last year, as he averaged an insane 28.2 yards per catch and caught 12 touchdowns. 

Barring anything unforeseen, Smith should be a terrific vertical threat for Gang Green's offense from the get-go. He is fantastic at tracking deep balls and making adjustments to reel in the catch, and he is capable of going the distance anytime he has the ball in his hands. 

The Ohio State product can line up all over the field and make plays. He worked on the outside and out of the slot for the Buckeyes, and he was equally effective in both roles. 

However, there are some significant holes in his game. His hands need to improve for him to be a consistent contributor at the next level, as does his route running. He ran simple routes throughout his collegiate career, so he might take a while to adjust to the NFL playbook. Smith's physicality also needs improving, as physical corners can shut him down too easily. 

Although he needs time to develop into a more complete wideout, Smith should be an immediate contributor. He perfectly complements the one-two receiving punch of Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, as he provides an over-the-top option that defenses have to constantly worry about. 

As long as the quarterback can make the throws downfield, Smith should be responsible for some huge plays in his rookie year. There will certainly be weeks where he is a non-factor, but he has the ability to change a game in one play because of his unbelievable speed. 

Mike Maccagnan and Co. have to hope that Smith will refine his game in the coming years and ultimately succeed Marshall as one of the offense's top receiving options. 

Because of his game-changing explosiveness, the Ohio native has drawn comparisons to Pro Bowl wideout DeSean Jackson and Torrey Smith. However, he has the physical tools to be a much more consistent contributor than either Jackson or Smith. 

Plenty of talented options were available for the Jets in the second round, including Nebraska outside linebacker Randy Gregory, Oregon tackle Jake Fisher and Arizona State wideout Jaelen Strong, so there will be second-guessing if Smith doesn't make an immediate impact. 

However, he addresses a significant need for Gang Green on the offensive side of the ball. If the team can walk away with a talented offensive lineman in the third round, this pick will look even better than it does now. 

In his first draft in charge, Maccagnan is off to a flying start. 

Grade: B+