How did Justin Fields, other potential Jets draft picks do in the National Championship?
Monday’s National Championship gave the Jets a glimpse at college football’s two best teams on the biggest stage.
With Alabama winning in a 52-24 rout, there’s not a lot that can be taken from Ohio State’s performance, especially with Justin Fields being in the cards for the Jets at No. 2. Prospects that could potentially be on the Jets’ radar — Wyatt Davis and Trey Sermon — were unable to finish the game for the Buckeyes, as they both suffered significant injuries.
Still, Monday’s contest was the latest opportunity for the Jets to scout some of the nation’s top prospects. With that said, let’s take a look at how some potential Jets draft picks performed in the National Championship.
QB Justin Fields, Ohio State
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While Justin Fields claimed he was healthy enough to play in Monday's National Championship, it was evident that he wasn't 100% while playing through a hip pointer injury. There were instances during the 52-24 loss where he made NFL level throws and others where some of his weaknesses were on full display. Fields completed only 17-33 passes for 194 yards and one touchdown against Alabama. It was a far cry from his performance against Clemson.
WR Devonta Smith, Alabama
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If there were any doubts about Devonta Smith's Heisman win, he put those to rest with his record-setting performance against Ohio State. Smith caught 12 passes for 215 yards with three touchdowns en route to winning the game's Offensive MVP. Smith did this with a finger injury, which held him out for the majority of the second half. If the Jets elect to keep Sam Darnold, Smith may be the perfect candidate for New York in a trade back scenario.
RB Najee Harris, Alabama
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Najee Harris showed out in his final collegiate game. The latest Alabama star running back had 22 rushes, 158 total yards and three total touchdowns during Monday's landslide victory. Harris bowled over Ohio State's shorthanded defense on Monday, recording the most touchdowns for an Alabama running back in a single-season. Harris very well could be an option with the No. 23 or No. 34 pick, depending on how Joe Douglas values this year's running back class.
WR Chris Olave, Ohio State
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After a dominant performance in the semifinal against Clemson, Chris Olave wasn't the same game-changing player against Alabama. The likely high draft pick finished Monday's game with eight receptions for 69 yards. In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Todd McShay sent Olave to the Jets with their second first-round pick. Getting a receiver of his caliber should be imperative for Douglas, regardless of Olave's performance on Monday.
WR Jaylen Waddle, Alabama
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Jaylen Waddle, limping at times, played 85 days after having a plate and screws placed in his injured ankle. Waddle finished the game with three receptions for 34 yards. NFL players voiced their concerns for Waddle and his decision to play in his final collegiate game. Even in a limited capacity, Waddle wanted to be able to play and added a small contribution to Alabama's win.
CB Patrick Surtain II, Alabama
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Patrick Surtain II's name wasn't called very much on Monday and that's generally a good thing for a cornerback. Surtain was able to keep Olave in check for most of the night. While Surtain had just two tackles during Monday's win, a first-round selection could be the cherry on top for a season filled with accolades.
