There have been rumors flying around NFL circles that the New York Jets might be looking to move former first-round pick, linebacker Darron Lee.
While these have been nothing more than rumors in recent weeks, NFL insider Benjamin Allbright just noted on KDSP AM in Denver that three teams have already inquired about the linebacker. The report goes on to suggest New York is looking for a third-round pick in return.
Among those interested are the Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lee, 24, was the No. 20 overall pick of the Jets back in 2016. The Ohio State product has started 36 of the 40 games in which he’s appeared in three seasons — recording a combined 258 tackles, 11 passes defended and three interceptions.
The decision to place Lee on the trade block likely stems from new head coach Adam Gase naming veteran Gregg Williams as the Jets’ defensive coordinator. Lee simply might not be as important to the defense in Williams’ scheme.
Cleveland’s interest can’t be considered too surprising. The team moved on from veteran Jamie Collins earlier in the offseason and needs an upgrade at linebacker. Unlike with Williams in New York, new Browns defensive coordinator Steve Wilks values linebaker play.
It will be interesting to see if anything comes of this ahead of next month’s draft. Even after dealing a third-round pick to the Giants in the blockbuster Odell Beckham Jr. trade, Cleveland still boasts a selection in that round (80th overall).