Lorenzo Mauldin to Jets: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

After selecting two of the more talented players in this year's draft class in the first two rounds, the New York Jets opted to address the need of an edge pass-rusher and select Louisville outside linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin in the third round. 

Gang Green traded down from No. 70 in an effort to collect additional parks, which was probably a smart idea considering the team entered the night with just five picks in the last six rounds. 

New York got good value in the trade, as it collected picks No. 82, 152 and 229, along with wide receiver DeVier Posey, from the Houston Texans. 

However, by moving down, the Jets missed out on some of the more talented players left in the draft, including Virginia outside linebacker Eli Harold, Colorado State quarterback Garrett Grayson and Miami running back Duke Johnson. 

Lorenzo Mauldin is far from a bad pick, however. He fixes Gang Green's last real need on the defensive side of the ball, while bringing a high character guy into the locker room. 

Mauldin's story is an inspiring one. He was placed into foster care at the age of two after his parents were both sent to jail, and he spent time in 16 different foster homes over the course of his childhood. He overcame this tough upbringing and emerged as a star at Louisville. 

Along with a natural toughness and terrific work ethic, Mauldin possesses a high motor and a good combination of quickness and agility. He also boasts a slew of strong pass-rushing moves, as he can beat opposing linemen in a variety of ways. 

The 22-year-old is also a solid contributor in the run game, and he has the versatility to line up all across the front seven. 

However, Mauldin's upside is somewhat limited by his lack of size and length. He can often struggle to make an impact against more powerful offensive linemen. Mauldin also needs to learn to play lower to the ground, as he plays too upright.

The Atlanta native has had issues with durability, as he struggled with injuries throughout his junior and senior seasons. 

Mauldin probably won't be a Pro Bowler, but he is a guy who can contribute from Day 1 due to his quickness and motor. Todd Bowles could line him up at a variety of spots in the front seven and expect him to make an impact, although he would probably excel as a weak-side linebacker. 

It may surprise some that Gang Green went with defense in the third round, especially considering the team's growing concerns along the offensive line. However, Mauldin presented strong value in the third round, and he filled one of the roster's biggest needs. 

Grade: B