Jets trade up for Miami guard Anez Cooper. Big-red-side OL depth for Jets.

The New York Jets have aggressively reshaped their interior line by trading up to draft Miami guard Anez Cooper, a 6-foot-5, 334-pound blocker described as having a “hulking” build and long arms. Cooper, a three-and-a-half-year starter at right guard with over 3,000 college snaps, earned All-ACC honors and is lauded for a remarkably low-pressure rate (1 pressure on 518 pass-blocking plays in 2025) and no sacks allowed in that span, highlighting his pass-blocking efficiency.

Key questions about usage and potential fit remain. Cooper has primarily played right guard in college, while Jets starter Joe Tippmann manned center last season and is a key part of the current group. The Jets may view Cooper as depth at interior line with the possibility of competing at left guard if given the opportunity, especially as they seek more versatility along the line after injuries and depth concerns.

Red flags to monitor include coaching-friendly penalties, notably six false starts last season, and questions about weight management given past reports of Cooper weighing over 400 pounds in high school. These factors will influence his development and role, particularly given the Jets’ historical penalty issues and the need for reliable, versatile interior depth.

Key Takeaways:
– Jets trade up to select Anez Cooper, strengthening interior line depth with a high-potential blocker.
– Cooper boasts elite pass-protection metrics and extensive starting experience, primarily at right guard.
– Potential role: backup to Tippmann with possible competition for left-guard duties if he adapts to multiple positions.
– Red flags to watch: penalty frequency and past weight fluctuations, affecting long-term development.