Defense a likely priority for Jets at No. 30

Despite that the Jets had one of the NFL's most dominant defenses in 2010, most prognosticators believe Gang Green will select a defender with the 30th overall pick in Thursday's draft — although there’s a chance they could opt for an offensive playmaker.

Here are five players that could end up as a Jet:

Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor

The Jets released veteran nose tackle Kris Jenkins in February. The team reportedly is high on Taylor, but reports recently surfaced saying that the 334-pound run stuffer has a degenerative condition in both feet.

Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA

The versatile Ayers could line up at either outside linebacker or defensive end. Ayers is a sure tackler, but he didn't display much speed at the NFL Scouting Combine in February.

Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado

If not for questions about his character — he was arrested twice in college — Smith might be a top-10 pick. Jets coach Rex Ryan has never been one to hold a player's past discretions against him.

Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson

Concerns about Bowers' knee could trigger a free fall for the NCAA's 2010 sacks leader. Would the Jets be willing to roll the dice on a high-risk, high-reward player?

Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

With Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards both potentially becoming free agents, the Jets could seek some insurance at wide receiver by taking the speedy Smith.