It's go time.
With Teddy Bridgewater off to New Orleans for a third-round pick, the Jets have pushed their chips to the middle of the table for the 2018.
The offense belongs to Sam Darnold.
The defense could soon belong to one of the NFL's premier players.
Yes, we're talking about Oakland Raiders pass rusher Khalil Mack. With seemingly no traction made between Mack and Oakland on a new deal, rumors are still suggesting a trade could go down soon--with the Jets as a possible destination.
Here's why the Jets should do what it takes to land Mack.
Game-wrecking player: Mack has 40.5 career sacks in four seasons in the NFL. While that number is special, it looks even better when considering that Mack only had four as a rookie in 2014. Since the start of the 2015 season, Mack has 36.5 sacks. In a league predicated on quarterback play and impacting how the passer performs, few can wreck opposing game plans like Mack.
Timeline works: Mack is going to get paid. The only question is by which team. For the Jets, having Darnold on a rookie contract for the next five seasons gives them an ultimate bargain. Now it's time to use that advantage. Much like how the Rams and Eagles loaded up with big contracts surrounding Jared Goff and Carson Wentz, the Jets can do the same.
Mack trade?
Make Darnold's life easier: There's no better friend for a young quarterback than a dominant defense. Limit points. Maximize possessions. Hand the offense short fields. If the Jets could put Mack alongside Leonard Williams, Darron Lee, Jamal Adams and Trumaine Johnson, a dominant defense could emerge at MetLife Stadium.
Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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