The dust is still settling on the 2026 NFL Draft, but in the world of football, it's never too early to look ahead. Analysts are already turning their attention to what's being billed as a historically impressive 2027 class, and the New York Jets are in an enviable position—armed with three first-round picks.
Way-too-early mock drafts are starting to surface, and one recent scenario has the Jets making a splash at No. 4 overall. Based on Super Bowl odds, New York lands South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers, a prospect who's already generating buzz for his raw, electrifying talent.
"LaNorris Sellers is a traits-first quarterback prospect who will probably generate back-and-forth debate next offseason," NFL Draft On Sports Illustrated notes. "Sellers is big, strong, and athletic with a cannon for an arm. Pocket presence and general decision making must improve, but the upside and high-level tools are undeniable."
Of course, Jets fans are likely dreaming bigger names like Arch Manning or Dante Moore. But with the Arizona Cardinals and Cleveland Browns holding worse Super Bowl odds—and thus picking ahead of New York—those two signal-callers are off the board in this scenario, leaving Sellers as the top quarterback available.
But the Jets don't stop there. With their second first-rounder at No. 15, they target Oregon defensive tackle A'Mauri Washington. "The Jets have done a decent job adding defensive tackles since trading Quinnen Williams, but Washington would have more pass-rushing upside than anyone they've filled out the position with to date," the analysis reads. It's a move that could shore up the interior and bring a new level of disruption to the defensive line.
Then, at No. 19, general manager Darren Mougey turns to the trenches on the other side of the ball, selecting Oregon interior offensive lineman Iapani Laloulu. "If the Jets draft a quarterback early, they'll also have to strengthen the interior of their offensive line with one of their three first-round picks," the mock draft explains. "Joe Tippmann is entering a contract year, but the flexible guard/center should be retained. Meanwhile, Oregon center Iapani Laloulu is an easy evaluation as a multi-year starter with overwhelming power."
Selecting Sellers at No. 4 overall would undoubtedly spark debate among the faithful. The South Carolina gunslinger is a high-risk, high-reward prospect—but in a draft class loaded with talent and with three first-rounders to play with, the Jets have the flexibility to swing for the fences. Whether it's building around a new QB or fortifying the roster with depth, Gang Green is positioning itself for a bright future.
