Jets Draft Pick Olu Fashanu Says Tyron Smith Is ‘Absolute Standard’
Last night during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the New York Jets surprised some people by passing on TE Brock Bowers for OT Olu Fashanu. I had Fashanu as my OT2 in the class, so this can be viewed as a home run pick, even if it isn’t the sexy pick. While speaking with reporters after the selection, Fashanu was quick to give flowers to his new teammate Tyron Smith.
Full quote via SNY.tv:
“He was the absolute standard at left tackle,” Fashanu said, “So for me, getting the opportunity to watch years upon years of film and now having this great opportunity to learn with him, learn any bits or tips that he has for me, I mean, what more could I ask for?”
For those who are just learning about Olu Fashanu, Trey did the draft profile on the former Penn State product, which you can find here. He gave his own breakdown of his game to media members during the meeting.
“As a lineman, I feel like I bring a lot of toughness, a lot of grit, and for me, most importantly, I feel like one of my best assets is consistency on the field, never taking any plays off, always giving my all,” Fashanu said. “Great in pass protection and run blocking, but also a great locker room guy as well. I’m someone who I’m going to be the same person day in and day out. Come in and work my tail off. I’m going to compete, I’m going to compete within the program, because at the end of the day, by competing with everyone, not only are you getting yourself better, but you’re getting everyone around you better.”
I loved the pick by the New York Jets to go and grab Olu Fashanu at 11. We saw the Minnesota Vikings move up from 11 to 10 to grab their Quarterback in J.J. McCarthy, and Olu landed right in their laps. Picking offensive line in the first round is like getting socks for Christmas: at the time you aren’t a fan because you wanted the shiny toy, but years down the line you’ll be glad you have them. That’s how Jets fans should be viewing the Fashanu pick over Bowers.
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