NFL Insider Reveals Jets' "Biggest Surprise" During 2026 Offseason

As the New York Jets continue to prepare for the upcoming NFL season, head coach Aaron Glenn could have a key playmaker on offense in 2026.

According to NFL insider Rich Cimini, one of the biggest “surprise players” this offseason has been wide receiver AD Mitchell, who has reportedly “exceeded their expectations this offseason.”

“The Jets figured Mitchell would take a leap this offseason -- his first with the team -- but he exceeded their expectations,” Cimini stated. “Mitchell, acquired from the Colts last November in the Sauce Gardner trade, solidified himself as the No. 2 receiver. He displayed a firm grasp of the new system, allowing him to flash his vertical speed. His chemistry with quarterback Geno Smith was quickly apparent. Mitchell should be a nice complement to Garrett Wilson.”

Mitchell, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, was a highly touted wideout coming out of Texas. However, the 6-foot-2, 205 lbs. pass catcher was buried on the Colts’ wide receiver depth chart throughout his first two seasons with the organization, causing him to be traded to the Jets at the deadline as part of the deal for cornerback Sauce Gardner.

In his eight games with New York following the trade, Mitchell showed plenty of promise, recording 201 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 24 receptions. With star wide receiver Garrett Wilson missing a majority of the 2025 season, Mitchell was able to step up for the Jets’ offense and be one of the top targets on offense, and has continued his success leading up to the upcoming season.

Now, with a healthy Wilson and the addition of 2026 first-round pick Omar Cooper Jr. this offseason, Mitchell could be due for a breakout season with the Jets.

Wilson’s terrific route-running ability and experience in the league should allow him to return to his top wide receiver role in 2026, while Cooper offers newly hired offensive coordinator Frank Reich a young playmaker to dominate in the short game. This leaves the door open for Mitchell to become the primary deep threat for New York’s offense in 2026 and beyond, putting him in a perfect role that fits his playstyle for next season.

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