After acquiring a massive haul throughout the course of the 2026 NFL Free Agency period, the New York Jets and general manager Darren Mougey will look to carry their efforts into the 2026 NFL Draft.

While the struggling franchise managed to sign multiple key free agents, it’s clear that the front office must finish the offseason with a huge draft class before the upcoming season. Luckily for fans, the organization’s slew of picks should help New York bring in more young, talented playmakers to pair with the free agency additions.

Here’s what the Jets’ 2026 NFL Draft could look like after the first wave of free agency.

With all the free agency moves and offseason trades the Jets have made, it’s clear that the organization will likely target a defensive end in round one of the upcoming draft.

Ohio State’s Arvell Reese may not have the best pass-rush resume, but his outstanding athleticism could allow him to grow into a star at the next level. If Reese is ultimately the selection for the Jets at pick No. 2, head coach Aaron Glenn will have to focus on giving him plenty of pass-rush reps throughout his rookie season in order to develop on defense.

Sticking on the defensive side of the ball, I find it hard to pass up on Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy with the No. 16 pick.

McCoy showed plenty of flashes throughout his 2024 season with the Volunteers, but a brutal injury kept him off the field last season. Despite the injury concerns, the talented defensive back has the potential to become the perfect replacement for former star cornerback Sauce Gardner in the foreseeable future.

If New York truly wants to get the most out of star wideout Garrett Wilson and newly-acquired quarterback Geno Smith, the organization must add another playmaker to the offense prior to the 2026 season.

Fortunately for Mougey and company, Washington’s Denzel Boston would be a terrific fit for the Jets' offense next season. Standing at 6-foot-4, 212 lbs., the highly regarded wideout is a big-bodied pass catcher who can take pressure off Wilson through the air, while also giving Smith an additional option.

Sep 27, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Koli Faaiu (61) and offensive lineman Chase Bisontis (71) block against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

New York has done an incredible job over the past two drafts at addressing the offensive tackle position by selecting both Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou. However, the interior of the offensive line needs a complete overhaul leading up to next season.

Texas A&M’s Chase Bisontis would be the perfect guard addition alongside the two young tackles for the future outlook on offense. While there may not be a future franchise quarterback for the Jets in this year’s draft, bolstering the offensive line for whoever takes the mantle in the coming years will have solid protection up front.

Round Four, Pick No. 103: Drew Allar (QB, Penn State)

Round Five, Pick No. 175: Aidan Fisher (LB, Indiana)

Round Five, Pick No. 178: DJ Campbell (IOL, Texas)

Round Six, Pick No. 181: Bishop Fitzgerald (SAF, USC)

Round Seven, Pick No. 219: Nick Barrett (IDL, South Carolina)

Round Seven, Pick No. 242: Vincent Anthony Jr. (EDGE, Duke)

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