The New York Jets are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft with two crucial first-round picks, a result of their trade involving cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts last season. With the No. 2 and No. 16 selections, the Jets aim to make impactful choices to bolster their roster.
The Jets are expected to focus on acquiring an edge rusher with the second overall pick after trading Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans. Prospects such as Arvell Reese, Rueben Bain Jr., and David Bailey have emerged as potential candidates for this pivotal selection.
As for the No. 16 pick, the Jets face more variables. If notable defensive talent unexpectedly falls to this spot, New York could opt for another defender. However, the likelihood leans toward adding a wide receiver, and the Jets have recently engaged with Washington Huskies standout Denzel Boston during a formal meeting.
In a recent mock draft by USA Today’s Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, he predicted that the Jets would select Boston at 16. The prospect of Boston joining the team presents an excellent opportunity to enhance their offensive capabilities, especially amidst ongoing uncertainty at the quarterback position. Middlehurst-Schwartz indicated that unless the Jets secure a quarterback through free agency or a trade, this question may persist into the 2027 season. Therefore, pairing Boston with Garrett Wilson could set the stage for sustained offensive success.
Boston is recognized for his impressive skills in contested catch situations and his ability to perform well against smaller cornerbacks. His physicality on the field complements Wilson’s skill set, creating a formidable duo capable of leveraging their respective strengths. This combination would provide offensive coordinator Frank Reich with strategic flexibility, including the potential for Wilson to operate from the slot.
Overall, the Jets are poised to make significant strides in the upcoming draft, and their decisions could reshape their roster for future success.