Jets take OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson with No. 4 pick

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April 29, 2006

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) -Even with a potential franchise quarterback dangling in front of them, the New York Jets opted for a player who could anchor their offensive line for many years.

The Jets selected Virginia left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson with the fourth overall pick in the NFL draft Saturday, bypassing Southern California quarterback Matt Leinart – drawing mostly cheers from fans gathered at Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan.

The 6-foot-6, 312-pound Ferguson widely was considered the best pass blocker available, and will have a chance to start immediately on a revamped offensive line. The Jets have only two experienced tackles on their roster: Adrian Jones, who can move back to his more natural right tackle spot, and free-agent acquisition Anthony Clement.

Ferguson, who grew up in Freeport – a few minutes from the Jets’ Long Island facility – has quick feet, good balance and, most importantly, can protect the quarterback. Who he’ll be protecting isn’t yet known, though, with Chad Pennington coming off a second rotator cuff injury and career backup Patrick Ramsey, acquired from Washington, in the fold.

Ferguson is light by usual NFL offensive lineman standards, but more than makes up for it with his athleticism and long arms.

He was the first true freshman to start on the offensive line for the Cavaliers, so he’s no stranger to the pressures of being a leader at a demanding position. Ferguson’s character is also unquestioned: He was an honors student who graduated a semester early, and was a youth minister at Virginia.