Jets' 3 biggest needs one month away from the 2026 NFL draft

Jets' 3 biggest needs one month away from the 2026 NFL draft

We're approximately one month away from the 2026 NFL draft. The New York Jets were fairly aggressive throughout the first wave of free agency, acquiring new veteran starters like quarterback Geno Smith, defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat, and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick via trade. Attention now shifts to the NFL Draft, where GM Darren Mougey is equipped with nine total selections, including four in the top 50.

The Jets will address major long-term needs throughout the 2026 NFL draft. We've identified their three biggest remaining holes now that we're approximately one month away from the draft.

Wide receiver

Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) makes a catch for a touchdown Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, during the Peach Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff against the Oregon Ducks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

The Jets need an appropriate WR2 opposite Garrett Wilson. Smith is a gunslinger at quarterback and deserves more weapons at his disposal. Adonai Mitchell will receive a season-long opportunity to establish himself as a mainstay moving forward, but additional young talent is needed.

Quarterback

Dec 19, 2025; Norman, OK, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) looks to make a pass against the Oklahoma Sooners in the first half at Gaylord Family OK Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Jets recently held a private workout with Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. Smith is obviously a temporary solution, designed to buy time and until Mougey can find his franchise guy. The Jets will either target a quarterback like Simspon, or delay the process a year, waiting for a potentially deeper class of arms in 2027.

Cornerback

Oct 5, 2024; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego State Aztecs cornerback Chris Johnson (1) warms up against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors before the game at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Abe Arredondo-Imagn Images

Cornerback is a position that did not receive major investments in free agency. The Jets signed Nahshon Wright to compete with Brandon Stephens outside, and are counting on sophomore Azareye'h Thomas to take a step forward. The Jets need to get more competitive in the secondary.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets' 3 biggest needs one month away from the 2026 NFL draft