The New York Jets are in the midst of a complete rebuild. They shipped away multiple high-caliber players this past season and are looking to restock the cupboard.
New York has the No. 2 overall pick and nine in total in 2026. Let’s see how they can best use those picks to help rebuild their team. We’ve conducted a seven-round Jets mock draft using our Mock Draft Machine.
Jets 7-Round NFL Mock Draft
Round 1 (No. 2 overall): Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State
The Jets are rebuilding their defense from the ground up, and Arvell Reese can be a cornerstone. He toggled between off-ball linebacker and edge rusher in 2025, but I expect his full pass-rushing capabilities to be unlocked in the NFL. Reese acknowledged at the Combine that he has to improve as a full-time edge player, but his blend of size and burst gives him the upside to be the most disruptive pass rusher in this class.
Round 1 (No. 16 overall): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Jets need a long-term complement to Garrett Wilson. When healthy, Jordyn Tyson is arguably the top receiver in the class. Tyson is a polished, precise route runner who can consistently beat any coverage. He did not work out at the 2026 NFL Combine while recovering from a hamstring injury. Given that his injury history is a red flag, that wasn't exactly ideal. But Tyson should produce right away in this offense.
Round 2 (No. 33 overall): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Ty Simpson may end up going in the first round when it’s all said and done, but it’s not a lock. With the first pick of round two, the Jets should pounce if the Alabama quarterback is still available. Simpson's 2025 campaign was a bit of a roller coaster, but his tape is loaded with NFL-caliber throws. He’s unafraid to challenge the entire field and fires some darts into tight middle-of-the-field windows. He doesn't have a ton of starting experience, and he fell off after dealing with numerous injuries late in the season, but he’s a worthwhile investment here as a potential long-term answer at quarterback.
Round 2 (No. 44 overall): Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
Brandon Cisse's draft stock has cooled a bit in recent weeks, but he still seems like a likely top-50 pick. Cisse showed off great speed, a true willingness to stick with bigger wide receivers, and strong run-game skills this past season. He just has to put all his traits together, refine them, and produce consistently.
Round 4 (No. 103 overall): Jalon Kilgore, SAF, South Carolina
The Jets only have two safeties under contract past 2026 and have met with Jalon Kilgore in the pre-draft process. Kilgore projects as a safety at the NFL level with strong zone coverage skills. He’s a strong athlete who’s more than willing in the run game. He plays with an infectious attitude as well.
Round 4 (No. 140 overall): Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
Tyreak Sapp gives the Jets another player to add to their defensive line rotation. Some see him living on the EDGE full-time, while others see him more as a 3-tech at the NFL level. I like him more in condensed areas, where his strength and power are showcased best.
Round 5 (No. 179 overall): Kaelon Black, RB, Indiana
Kaelon Black was considered one of the biggest 2026 NFL Combine snubs, but he’s a name to watch during the back-half of day three. Black is physical, yet nuanced when it comes to finding rushing lanes. He’s a tough tackle with the ball in his hands and a spirited pass protector when the quarterback drops back to pass. He probably won’t help out much in the receiving game, though.
Round 7 (No. 228 overall): Fernando Carmona, IOL, Arkansas
Fernando Carmona is not yet a complete player, but he looks like he can be a multi-position backup and a spot starter. Carmona has the requisite size, a hot motor, and plays with a violent, physical demeanor. The big concern is that he’s not very agile, and that shows up on film in certain scenarios when he struggles.
Round 7 (No. 242 overall): Trebor Pena, WR, Penn State
Trebor Pena has met with the Jets multiple times, and they may choose to use their final draft pick on him. Pena lined up in multiple spots at Penn State but looks to be best as a slot receiver who can help in the return game on special teams. His path to making the teams will be on special teams first.