To get true #1C you either have to suck really bad and get a really high pick (& a little lucky) or get a mid range pick and VERY lucky. Both of these are not likely in the Jets case IMO.
Next best way.....see what Dallas did with Seguin. They targeted a young potential superstar who had some maturity issues (not completely unlike RJ) but limitless ability and took a calculated risk. Well they hit a grand slam with that risk.
Is there risk involved? Absolutely. Could we strike out? Absolutely. Could we hit a grand slam? Most definitely. If we play it safe for another 5 years where are we going to be? Middle of the pack still? Decent but not great team? In sports dont we play to win? No one plays sports to finish 3rd or 5th or 10th spot.....we play to win. So let's play to win.
In baseball, when you go to the plate, you can either play it safe, choke up on the bat.....try for that single line drive or grounder.......or you can swing for the fence when the odds are slightly in your favour when you know the pitcher is going to throw his fastball straight over the plate.
To-date Chevy has choked up on the bat, here is a chance to try for that grand slam. How often do true elite #1C come up on the market? Once every few years maybe? We've got an experienced players coach under contract. Give him this raw talent and let PMO turn him into a leader, man and a superstar.
Ok I'm stepping off the soapbox now.
IMO if RJ just has work ethic issues, those can be fixed by PMO, Chevy, Chipman, vets on our team. If RJ was a cancer in the room, forget it no interest in him (but I have never heard that about him). This guy is pure skill, crazy potential. Chevy should research him, talk to former coaches, HS teachers (slightly kidding), trainers, etc......find out everything about him and his character. If he doesn't hear anything really bad, start talking very seriously to CBJ.
Sign Buff, easy to say yes I know.
Trade Ladd for 1st and decent prospect. Frees up cap space.
Trade either our or the 1st from Ladd trade (depending on value and timing) and Myers for RJ.....throw in a ok prospect if you must to sweeten it (Armia or BL, just not our best ones).
Before I do any of the above, I find out what RJ wants on his new contract. Reasonable? Trade for him......not reasonable? Don't do it.
But I would MUCH sooner spend 7 million long term per yr on RJ vs Ladd.
Young Elite true #1C vs aging winger? Easy choice IMO.
Chevy do your research, all looks ok? If yes, swing for the fence.