NEW YORK -- Rex Ryan has much stacked against him as he coaches for his job in 2013. He'll at least get the advantage of a revamped defense.
The New York Jets selected Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson with the 13th overall pick in Thursday's 2013 NFL Draft. The choice came four picks after the Jets took Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner with the ninth selection.
Richardson has quickness and a great motor, allowing him to make plays both inside and outside. He can get to the quarterback, a trait the Jets covet. Richardson was ranked as the seventh-best prospect on Mike Mayock's top 50.
That might not have been the case if Tavon Austin was available at No. 9. The St. Louis Ramstraded up to grab the former West Virginia wide receiver at No. 8, removing a logical -- and fan-pleasing -- option from the board for John Idzik.
Ryan is a defensive coach, and he's probably pleased with how the first-round played out. The same cannot be said for quarterback Mark Sanchez, who must feel like he's been walked off a plank.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.
