The 2026 NFL Draft is now in the books for the New York Jets. The New York Jets filled a gaping hole at edge defender when they selected standout Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey with the second overall pick in the first round. Bailey should step in immediately as the Jets’ best pass rusher. Hopefully he develops into a three down player who racks up double digit sack seasons on a regular basis. It’s been a long time since the Jets had a pass rusher with this much potential.
The Jets followed up
the Bailey selection by picking Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the 16th overall pick in the first round. Sadiq is an athletic freak who had the best NFL combine for any tight end in combine history. He should play a large role in the Jets passing game going forward. The Jets ended the first round by trading up for a third first round pick at #30. There they selected Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper, who projects as a versatile WR2 opposite WR1 Garrett Wilson. Cooper is capable of playing outside or in the slot. He should start immediately and provide an upgrade to the Jets passing attack. The Jets followed up the day one bonanza with just one pick on day two of the draft, Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds, a wildly popular pick with the fans. Ponds should start immediately in the Jets’ defensive backfield.
The rest of the Jets draft filled in the Jets roster with depth players who are likely to begin their Jets careers as backups. In time they may develop into larger roles with the team.
Here is your New York Jets draft class of 2026:
Round 1 (2nd overall) David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech
Round 1 (16th overall) Kenyon Sadiq, Tight End, Oregon
Round 1 (30th overall) Omar Cooper, Wide Receiver, Indiana
Round 2 (50th overall) D’Angelo Ponds, Cornerback, Indiana
Round 4 (103rd overall) Darrell Jackson, Defensive Tackle, Florida State
Round 4 (110th overall) Clade Klubnik, Quarterback, Clemson
Round 6 (188th overall) Anez Cooper, Guard, Miami
Round 7 (228th overall) VJ Payne, Safety, Kansas State
