As the New York Jets prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, considering quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa as a potential backup in the later rounds.
Brian Costello with The New York Post released an updated mock draft a few weeks before the event, with the Jets obtaining star receiver Rome Odunze in the first round and running back Braelon Allen in Round 4.
Costello also predicts that the Jets will select Tagovailoa, the younger brother of the star Miami Dolphins quarterback, with their final seventh-round pick.
Costello expressed, “This would be an interesting story. The Jets need to add a third quarterback as a developmental option behind Aaron Rodgers and Tyrod Taylor. Drafting a player with a famous last name would add some excitement.”
Taulia Tagovailoa Scouting Report
While not as promising as his older brother, Tagovailoa remains an appealing quarterback option in this year’s draft.
Tagovailoa was highly regarded as a pro-style quarterback in high school. A 4-star recruit, he initially chose to attend his brother’s alma mater but later transferred to Maryland after one year.
Tagovailoa departs from the Terrapins as the program’s all-time leader in various passing categories. He started 41 games for Maryland, posting a 23-18 record as a starter with 11,356 passing yards, 77 passing touchdowns, and 37 interceptions.
As a prospect, Tagovailoa stands at 5’11” and 200 pounds. At 24 years old, he lacks the arm strength and consistent mechanics of other top QBs in this draft.
However, despite these shortcomings, Tagovailoa is still a talented athlete who can make plays with his legs and deliver precise throws in the right rhythm.
With continued work on his mechanics to compensate for his physical limitations, Tagovailoa could be a valuable development project as a backup quarterback.
Latest on Zach Wilson
The Jets potentially drafting a quarterback would likely signal the departure of Zach Wilson . However, there have been few updates on this matter.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter mentioned in a recent update that he still anticipates Wilson’s trade. Yet, Schefter also noted that a potential trade may take time due to various factors.
One major obstacle is Wilson’s contract. As the second overall pick in 2021, Wilson is currently in a $35 million rookie deal. His annual cap hit exceeds $11 million, which can be challenging to manage, especially if he’s only expected to serve as a backup.
Another issue is the diminishing opportunities for backup QB positions. The Kansas City Chiefs recently filled their void by signing veteran Carson Wentz, leaving fewer opportunities available for Wilson.
The Jets might need to retain Wilson for the upcoming season. Nevertheless, if they are serious about drafting a developmental QB, they must find a way to move on from their former top draft pick.
