Here's who the New York Jets could select in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The New York Jets and general manager Darren Mougey are in one of the more intriguing positions leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
With a total of nine picks and four in the top 50 in the upcoming draft, the struggling franchise could completely revamp its entire roster this offseason. However, it remains unclear what the Jets could do in the first round of the draft, as New York currently holds the No. 2 and No. 16 picks.
Now, with less than a week before the draft, here are my predictions as to what the Jets will do in round one.
Round One, Pick No. 2
Oct 25, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) pressures Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Noah Walters (12) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn ImagesEarlier this offseason, I predicted that the Jets would select Ohio State's linebacker-EDGE hybrid Arvell Reese with the No. 2 pick. But now, with more information, it's clear that New York could be looking elsewhere at the top of the first round.
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, the odds as of Thursday afternoon are tied between Reese and fellow EDGE rusher in Texas Tech's David Bailey (-115). While Reese is coming off an incredible showing during the 2026 NFL Combine, his lack of experience as a pass rusher continues to be an issue heading into the draft. On the contrary, Bailey possesses an outstanding pass-rushing profile, recording 14.5 sacks in his final season with the Red Raiders.
Reese's potential is far higher than Bailey's, which is why he is significantly higher on my board. Still, head coach Aaron Glenn could favor the playmaker who has the higher floor in Bailey.
Prediction: David Bailey
Round One, Pick No. 16
Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs down the sideline past Miami (FL) Hurricanes defenders Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.With the Jets' second pick in the first round, it's hard to identify what the organization could do at pick No. 16.
New York has plenty of needs that must be addressed this offseason, including multiple spots on the defensive line and in the secondary. However, there are also still a slew of needs on offense, such as a second wide receiver to pair with star Garrett Wilson. Luckily for Mougey and the rest of the front office, this year's draft class features multiple pass catchers that could be selected in the first round.
One name that may be off the radar of many fans is Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., who would be a perfect addition to the Jets' offense in 2026. His dynamic yards-after-the-catch ability is exactly what Wilson would need to truly thrive, while also giving quarterback Geno Smith another weapon.
Prediction: Omar Cooper Jr.
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