Rich Cimini, ESPN Staff Writer 8y

Draft watch: An early look at Jets' possible options at No. 20

In less than three months, the New York Jets will be on the clock, holding the 20th pick in the first round. From now until then, we'll provide periodic watch-list updates, looking at players that might be available and could fit the Jets.

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State -- His value to the Jets could depend on how things shake out in free agency, as their top three backs are unsigned. Elliott produced huge numbers at the highest level of competition and has the ability to be a three-down back. Scouts still are compiling info on him because he's only a junior. If he runs well at the scouting combine and his pro day, he might not make it to 20. ESPN's Todd McShay has Elliott going to the Jets in his latest mock draft.

Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama -- There's a lot of buzz about him, but I spoke to one NFC scout who isn't as high on Ragland as some other people. "I was listening to Mike Mayock on TV, and he described him as the next Dick Butkus, Mike Singletary and LT, all rolled into one," said the scout, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "I thought he was talking about Superman. I don't think he's a first-round player. I think he leaves a lot to be desired." The Jets are definitely in the market for an inside 'backer.

Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame -- Smith won't be able to work out because he tore his ACL in Notre Dame's bowl game. For him, the pre-draft process will be all about the medicals, convincing teams he's still an elite talent. He was projected as a potential top-5 pick, but he's now considered a mid- to late-first-round pick. He can play inside or outside, both need positions for the Jets.

Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky -- He excited scouts with his pass-rushing ability at the Senior Bowl, but he has a lot of off-the-field baggage. He was suspended twice at Ohio State for flunking drug tests, prompting him to transfer. So much talent, yet so many questions. You'll hear the words "due diligence" associated with him a lot over the next two-plus months.

Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama -- You're probably thinking, "Oh, no, not another defensive lineman." But if the Jets lose Damon Harrison in free agency, they'll have a huge hole in the middle of their defense. Reed is a strong interior presence. Said the scout: "I think he's one of the best two-gap guys I've seen in the last three or four years. He's naturally strong, and he plays with leverage and power. He ain't a pass-rusher, but he's a legit first-rounder."

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