The rebuilding New York Jets aren't favored to win many games in 2026. The franchise possesses three first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. General manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn are rebuilding the roster.
If the Jets are to surprise critics throughout the 2026 campaign
, they'll need to thrive as underdogs. That isn't something they've done at an effective level in recent seasons.Recent data provided by Sports Illustrated highlights how poorly the Jets have fared as underdogs over the years.
The Jets have the worst record as underdogs in the NFL, winning just 39.53% of games when expected to lose over the last 10 seasons, per the data provided by SI. The Jets have gone 51-73-5 throughout that 10-year sample size. That's simply
not good enough.
The Jets are arguably more talented than the general public realizes. The offensive line is extremely talented. Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, and Omar Cooper Jr. should form an impactful receiving trio. Geno Smith is an experienced starting quarterback, and Breece Hall is a playmaking running back.
The defense underwent a much-needed offseason makeover. Additions like David Onyemata, Joseph Ossai, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Demario Davis should add veteran leadership. Young players like T'Vondre Sweat, D'Angelo Ponds, and David Bailey are trending upwards.
The Jets will often be considered underdogs during the 2026 season. They haven't proven oddsmakers wrong consistently enough over the previous 10 campaigns. Hopefully that changes this year.
Jets Wire will continue to provide updates throughout the 2026 NFL season.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Rebuilding Jets must improve in underrated, but critical area
