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Why Jets fans should be excited about Alijah Vera-Tucker

Following their selection of Zach Wilson with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft, the New York Jets look to find him some help after trading up to No. 14 overall.

The Jets went with Southern California offensive guard in Vera-Tucker. This selection is all about protecting their investment at quarterback after they traded away their last quarterback in Sam Darnold. Vera-Tucker will be tasked with protecting the middle of the offensive line, keeping the quarterback on his feet, and opening up holes in the running game.

Vera-Tucker can play a variety of roles as he started all six games for the Trojans at offensive tackle in the shortened season. In 2019, he was a guard that played in all 13 games on the left side and was named the Trojan’s offensive lineman of the year. He would serve as a backup and saw playing time in 12 games as a redshirt freshman. Now he is heading to the Big Apple.

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