The New York Jets are staring down a pivotal offseason, with new head coach Aaron Glenn tasked with turning potential into results. This roster has talent, but it’s crying out for game-changing players—and that’s where the 2026 NFL Draft comes into play. To truly compete, the Jets need to nail their picks and unearth value across all seven rounds.
In this latest 7-round mock draft, the philosophy was simple: fix the defense by any means necessary. After orchestrating an early trade-back, the front office also managed to sprinkle in some offensive firepower. The result? A haul that feels both transformative and realistic.
Round 1, Pick 2: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
Bailey, a Stanford transfer, is the premier pass-rusher in this class. His explosive first step and wingspan make him a nightmare on obvious passing downs. As he continues to refine his run defense, he has the tools to develop into one of the league’s elite edge defenders.
Round 1, Pick 29: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
A mountain of a man at 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, Banks moves like someone half his size. Inconsistency and injuries have held him back, but the raw athleticism is undeniable. If the Jets can unlock his potential, this could be one of the draft’s biggest steals.
Round 2, Pick 33: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Garrett Wilson can’t do it alone. Boston brings something the Jets’ receiving corps desperately needs: size. At 6-foot-4 with strong hands and elite ball skills, he’d immediately become a red-zone threat and a physical presence on the outside.
Round 2, Pick 44: Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
Versatility is Stukes’ superpower. He’s lined up at nickel and safety for Arizona, and some scouts even see cornerback potential in his future. But his best fit is inside, where his instincts and athleticism could make him a difference-maker.
Round 2, Pick 61: Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor
The Jets like Mason Taylor, but Trigg’s athletic upside is impossible to ignore. He’s a freakish talent with off-field question marks that will cause him to slide. If the team does its homework and feels comfortable, they could land a future starter with Pro Bowl potential.
Round 4, Pick 103: Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
Demmings is a physical, aggressive corner with the kind of speed and explosiveness that translates well to the next level. He’s a developmental prospect who could easily climb boards before draft day, so grabbing him here would be excellent value.
Round 5, Pick 178: Lander Barton, LB, Utah
Injuries have plagued Barton’s career and cratered his draft stock, but the talent is real. He’s a versatile linebacker who can contribute immediately on special teams while he develops. This is the kind of pick that keeps rosters deep for years.
Round 7, Pick 239: J’Mari Taylor, RB, Virginia
The NC Central transfer wasn’t on many radars heading into 2025, but his physical running style and contact balance have forced scouts to take notice. He runs with purpose and could surprise as a late-round steal.
Round 7, Pick 243: Kaleb Proctor, DT, Southeastern Louisiana
Undersized but explosive, Proctor wins with quickness and slippery movement. Even if he never develops into a full-time starter, his ability to penetrate as an interior pass-rusher could carve out a valuable rotational role.
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