2027 NFL Draft: Early interior O-line targets for the Jets draft board
· Yahoo Sports
The quarterback conversation isn't going away. Whether it's Geno Smith continuing to hold down the job, Cade Klubnik developing into the future, or the New York Jets eventually investing another premium draft pick at the position, most early 2027 NFL Draft discussions seem to begin with quarterbacks.
That's understandable, but the organization may have another priority lurking beneath the surface. Depth along the offensive front seems lacking.
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Sure, the starting interior offensive line appears to be in good hands. Joe Tippmann recently signed a long-term extension, Dylan Parham gives New York another proven starter, and Josh Myers adds valuable experience.
Behind them, however, the picture becomes far less certain. Should injuries strike, the Jets could find themselves relying heavily on sixth-round rookie Anez Cooper or Xavier Newman-Johnson. Good organizations don't wait until depth becomes a problem. They prepare for it.
Scouting is a year-round process, and while the 2026 college football season hasn't even kicked off, NFL personnel departments have already begun assembling early draft boards. If the Jets decide to reinforce the interior offensive line next spring, these prospects deserve plenty of attention.
Iapani Laloulu, Oregon Ducks
Iapani Laloulu has experience at both guard and center, and that versatility only strengthens his appeal. He wins with leverage and power at the point of attack, making him an ideal fit for teams looking to improve both the running game and pass protection.
Luke Montgomery, Ohio State Buckeyes
Luke Montgomery made a smooth transition into the Buckeyes' starting lineup and rewarded the coaching staff with a dependable first season. He's balanced as both a run blocker and pass protector and projects as a steady NFL starter. A 2024 College Football Playoff national champion, he was a Second-team All-Big Ten mention last season.
Aidan Banfield, North Carolina Tar Heels
Aidan Banfield remains somewhat of a mystery compared to some of the bigger names on this list, but his upside is undeniable. Another productive season could send him climbing draft boards in a hurry.
Alani Noa, USC Trojans
Alani Noa has quietly developed into one of the more dependable interior blockers in college football. After starting at both guard spots over the past two seasons, he enters 2026 as one of the steadier prospects in the class. His combination of athleticism, technique, and positional experience makes him an intriguing fit for teams searching for an NFL-ready guard.
Patrick Kutas, Ole Miss Rebels
Patrick Kutas transferred to Ole Miss after beginning his career with the Arkansas Razorbacks, and the move could pay dividends for his draft stock. At 6-foot-6, he offers excellent size and upside while showing the ability to create movement in the running game. If he adds more strength and builds on his 2025 campaign, don't be surprised if he climbs into Day 2 conversations.
Joseph Cruz, Syracuse Orange
Versatility is Cruz's biggest selling point. The Syracuse Orange has trusted him at both guard spots, center, and even tackle throughout his career, giving NFL scouts plenty to evaluate. Perhaps most impressive, he has yet to surrender a sack during his collegiate career, an accomplishment that speaks volumes about his technique and consistency in pass protection.
Evan Tengesdahl, Cincinnati Bearcats
Evan Tengesdahl is another interior blocker worth monitoring as the season unfolds. While he may not receive the same preseason attention as some of the higher-profile names on this list, continued development could quickly change that. The Jets have consistently shown they're willing to invest in tough, physical offensive linemen, making Tengesdahl a prospect who bears watching throughout the 2026 college football season.
Coen Echols, Texas A&M Aggies
Echols closes out the early watch list thanks to his power and technical refinement. He consistently anchors well in pass protection and generates movement in the running game, giving him the profile of a dependable NFL guard.
It's still early, and plenty will change before the 2027 draft arrives. New names will emerge. Others will fall off draft boards. Even so, if the Jets want to continue building an offensive line capable of protecting their quarterback for years to come, this group provides an excellent place to begin the evaluation process.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 2027 NFL Draft: Early interior O-line targets for the Jets draft board