ESPN’s Mel Kiper has released a new mock draft where he has the Jets using their two first round picks to address needs at the two most important positions on the field.
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New York Jets: David Bailey, OLB, Texas Tech
In my January mock draft, I had Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese here. In February, I went with Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. Now, it’s Bailey. These are all good options for a defense that could use a lot of help, but the Jets really need an instant impact edge rusher. They were 31st in sacks last season (26) and traded Jermaine Johnson, further thinning out the unit. They have to find foundational players off the edge. And Bailey is explosive and productive, posting 14.5 sacks (tied for first in the FBS), 71 pressures (second) and a 20.2% pressure rate (first) last season.
16. New York Jets: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The Jets don’t have to draft a quarterback here. They traded for Geno Smith as a bridge option and have three first-round picks in 2027, when the QB class should be a lot better. But this is a good range for Simpson, who has only 15 career starts but throws with accuracy, processes quickly and moves well in the pocket. He threw 28 touchdown passes in 2025 and is a first-round QB in my book.
Simply put, New York has to take some swings to figure out the long-term solution under center. I could see the Jets drafting Simpson and letting him learn and develop a little behind Smith before he moves into the starter role.
There are two major debates that will dominate discussion for the Jets heading into the 2026 NFL Draft where they own a pair of first round picks. The first is which edge rusher is best with the second overall pick. Arvell Reese out of Ohio State has generated plenty of buzz, but Bailey can’t be ruled out.
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The second debate is where Ty Simpson should be picked. Simpson is in the running to be the second quarterback off the board. At what point does he make sense for the Jets? Would he be worth it at 16 overall? How about 33?
How the Jets answer those questions could shape the franchise for years to come.