An NFL executive only took issue with one New York Jets draft choice.
The New York Jets entered the 2026 NFL Draft loaded with capital, and they certainly flexed their muscles by selecting edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 and then tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 16.
The Bailey and Sadiq picks were largely lauded, with Bailey being arguably the best pass rusher in the class and Sadiq being an absolute freak.
But the Jets also traded back into the first round to acquire another Day 1 selection, using it to select wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 30.
While some loved New York's decision to snatch Cooper, others were not as impressed. That includes one particular NFL executive who told Mike Sando of The Athletic that he was not moved by the Jets drafting the Indiana Hoosiers product.
“The Jets got good players,” another exec said. “Bailey is a legitimate speed outside rusher. Sadiq is a weapon. I didn’t like Cooper as much; even though he can change directions, has good hips and all, there is not an acceleration aspect.”
Cooper hauled in 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns this past season, helping lead Indiana to a national championship.
New York Jets receiver Omar Cooper Jr. Credit: Jess Stiles-Imagn Images.The 22-year-old began his collegiate career with the Hoosiers in 2022 and spent his entire NCAA tenure in Bloomington, breaking out in 2024 when he caught 28 passes for 594 yards and seven scores.
There is no doubt that there is an explosive aspect to Cooper's game, as evidenced by the fact that he averaged 15.6 yards per catch during his time at Indiana.
However, the Jets really needed an X-receiver to put alongside of Garrett Wilson, and that is certainly not Cooper, who stands just six feet tall and weighs 199 pounds.
With Washington's Denzel Boston on the board, New York could have landed the perfect complement to Wilson, with Boston being 6-foot-4 and weighing around 210 pounds. But the Jets decided to go with the speedier Cooper.
New York's offense was absolutely horrendous in 2025, so, at the very least, the Jets now have some intriguing weapons beyond Wilson in the aerial attack. Even if Cooper may not be the most ideal fit.
And who knows? Cooper might shock some people and end up making a push for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award next season.
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