The 2026 NFL Draft was a clear culture-changing draft for the New York Jets.

The leadership group in head coach Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey valued not only talented propsects, but also successful ones.

Each of their first four picks -- David Bailey at No. 2, Kenyon Sadiq at No. 16, Omar Cooper Jr. at 30 and D'Angelo Ponds at No. 50 -- were all participants in the College Football Playoff, with Cooper and Ponds both being crowned national champions at Indiana.

While Glenn and Mougey added a ton of draft capital on Day 1 and 2, the more crucial part will come next April, where all signs point to the Jets finding their next franchise quarterback.

Oct 11, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) looks to the bench in the second half against the Kansas Jayhawks at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) reacts as he walks off the field following the game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOct 25, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) pressures Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Noah Walters (12) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn ImagesTexas Tech's David Bailey (31) celebrates a sack with teammates Romello Height (9) and John Curry a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.Texas Tech's David Bailey talks to his family during the senior day ceremony before a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesTexas Tech's David Bailey wraps up the BYU ball carrier during a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 8, at Jones AT&T Stadium.Texas Tech's David Bailey looks to the sideline during the Big 12 Conference championship football game, Saturday, Nov. 6, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.Texas Tech's David Bailey rushes the Kent State offense during a non-conference football game, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey poses on the red carpet before the 2026 NFL Draft at Point State Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images1 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 11, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) looks to the bench in the second half against the Kansas Jayhawks at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images1 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 11, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) looks to the bench in the second half against the Kansas Jayhawks at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images2 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images3 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images4 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images5 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images6 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images7 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images8 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images9 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images10 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images11 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images12 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) reacts as he walks off the field following the game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images13 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosOct 25, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) pressures Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Noah Walters (12) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images14 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosTexas Tech's David Bailey (31) celebrates a sack with teammates Romello Height (9) and John Curry a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.15 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosTexas Tech's David Bailey talks to his family during the senior day ceremony before a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.16 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images17 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images18 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey (DL31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images19 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosTexas Tech's David Bailey wraps up the BYU ball carrier during a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 8, at Jones AT&T Stadium.20 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosTexas Tech's David Bailey looks to the sideline during the Big 12 Conference championship football game, Saturday, Nov. 6, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.21 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosTexas Tech's David Bailey rushes the Kent State offense during a non-conference football game, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.22 / 22Meet David Bailey, NY Jets' newest draft pick in photosApr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey poses on the red carpet before the 2026 NFL Draft at Point State Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesAfter having three first-round picks in 2026, Gang Green are armed with three more first-round selections in the 2027 NFL Draft, acquiring two-more first rounders when they traded away Sauce Gardner to the Colts and Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys last November.

With a weak QB class this past draft cycle, it made the most sense to sign a one-year stop gap veteran such as Geno Smith for the 2026 season ahead of what might be the most highly anticipated draft class over the last decade coming in 2027.

The Pro Football Network Draft simulator was involved to determine the New York Jets slots for their three first-round picks in 2027.

In this virtual simulation, the Jets ended up in a tremendous spot with three top-15 picks -- No. 3, 12 and 15 overall -- a luxury no other NFL team has at this moment. Shockingly, both quarterback needy teams in the Cardinals and Dolphins passed on a signal caller with the top-two picks, with Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith going No. 1 overall to Arizona and South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart going right after Smith at No. 2 to Miami.

Given the highly anticipated QB class coming in, that feels highly unlikely to happen as the Jets will need to trade or have a miracle happen if they landed the third overall pick and neither team in front of them or someone picking later on didn't trade the farm to draft a QB with one of the top two picks ahead of them.

Alas, we continue with scenario that Smith and Stewart start things off at No.1 and No. 2.

So which quarterback will the Jets pick at No. 3 overall?

Combat Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles Fighting Ducks inside linebacker Dylan Williams as the Fighting Ducks face off against Mighty Oregon in the Oregon Ducks spring game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene.Jul 23, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn ImagesOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq talks with reporters during Oregon football’s Media Day on July 28, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene.Sep 20, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) makes a reception Oregon State Beavers defensive back Tyrice Ivy Jr. (12) of the game at Autzen Stadium. Sadiq scored a touchdown on the play. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over Penn State cornerback Audavion Collins as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania.Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq celebrates with fans as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania.Oct 18, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesOct 18, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) gains yards after catch during the first half against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesOct 25, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Autzen Stadium. The Ducks are wearing uniforms celebrating the Grateful Dead. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesOct 25, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass during the first half against Wisconsin Badgers safety Matt Jung (29) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 14, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass during the first half against Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Aidan Gousby (7) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a touch down during the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates scoring a touch down during the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass for a touch down during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass for a touch down during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hauls in a touchdown catch as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.Nov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesOregon offensive lineman Charlie Pickard hoists tight end Kenyon Sadiq into the air to celebrate a touchdown as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq, center, pulls down a touchdown reception in double coverage between Southern California’s Kennedy Urlacher, left, and Christian Pierce during the third quarter Nov. 22, 2025.Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over USC cornerback DeCarlos Nicholson as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq lands in the end zone with a touchdown as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq carries the ball under cover from Washington cornerback Ephesians Prysock as the Oregon Ducks take on the Washington Huskies on Nov. 29, 2025, at Husky Stadium in Seattle, Washington.Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesDec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) looks on before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesJan 9, 2026; Atlanta, GA, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) runs against Indiana Hoosiers linebacker Isaiah Jones (46)during the first quarter of the 2025 Peach Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn ImagesfApr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq is selected by the New York Jets as the number 16 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images1 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosCombat Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles Fighting Ducks inside linebacker Dylan Williams as the Fighting Ducks face off against Mighty Oregon in the Oregon Ducks spring game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene.1 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosCombat Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles Fighting Ducks inside linebacker Dylan Williams as the Fighting Ducks face off against Mighty Oregon in the Oregon Ducks spring game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene.2 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJul 23, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images3 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq talks with reporters during Oregon football’s Media Day on July 28, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene.4 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosSep 20, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) makes a reception Oregon State Beavers defensive back Tyrice Ivy Jr. (12) of the game at Autzen Stadium. Sadiq scored a touchdown on the play. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images5 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over Penn State cornerback Audavion Collins as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania.6 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq celebrates with fans as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania.7 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images8 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOct 18, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) gains yards after catch during the first half against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images9 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOct 25, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Autzen Stadium. The Ducks are wearing uniforms celebrating the Grateful Dead. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images10 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOct 25, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass during the first half against Wisconsin Badgers safety Matt Jung (29) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images11 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 14, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass during the first half against Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Aidan Gousby (7) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images12 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a touch down during the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images13 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates scoring a touch down during the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images14 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass for a touch down during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images15 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) catches a pass for a touch down during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images16 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images17 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hauls in a touchdown catch as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.18 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images19 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon offensive lineman Charlie Pickard hoists tight end Kenyon Sadiq into the air to celebrate a touchdown as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.20 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon’s Kenyon Sadiq, center, pulls down a touchdown reception in double coverage between Southern California’s Kennedy Urlacher, left, and Christian Pierce during the third quarter Nov. 22, 2025.21 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over USC cornerback DeCarlos Nicholson as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.22 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq lands in the end zone with a touchdown as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.23 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq carries the ball under cover from Washington cornerback Ephesians Prysock as the Oregon Ducks take on the Washington Huskies on Nov. 29, 2025, at Husky Stadium in Seattle, Washington.24 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosDec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) warms up before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images25 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosDec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) looks on before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images26 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 9, 2026; Atlanta, GA, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) runs against Indiana Hoosiers linebacker Isaiah Jones (46)during the first quarter of the 2025 Peach Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Imagesf27 / 27Meet Kenyon Sadiq, NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosApr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq is selected by the New York Jets as the number 16 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesRound 1, Pick 3: Arch Manning, QB, TexasThis is a dream situation for the Jets.

Will it be a fantasy come this time around next year? More than likely, with the Jets needing to trade one or more of their first round assets if they want a specific QB to trade up for and not wait until No. 3 overall or later.

To me, this comes down to Texas QB Arch Manning or Oregon QB Dante Moore.

Moore was seemingly going to be the next Jets franchise quarterback this year before he surprisingly decided to forgo the NFL Draft and return to the Ducks for another season in 2026.

That made Glenn and Mougey's decision much easier to go best player on their board and draft Bailey at No. 2 overall instead of reaching for a QB with one of their first or second round picks.

Right now, my choice is Manning, who in a similar amount of starts, had a lower interception rate (1.7 percent) in 2025, taken fewer sacks in their collegiate careers and has shown early on to be the more capable duel threat option (399 rushing yards, 10 rushing touchdowns) compared to Moore (156 rushing yards, two touchdowns) last season.

It would be poetic for Manning to try and lead the Jets to the promise land after a near six-decade drought for the franchise after his uncle, Eli Manning, led the New York Giants to two Lombardi trophies for the franchise they share a stadium with.

Sep 27, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) reacts after a touchdown reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn ImagesSep 27, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) reacts with teammates after a touchdown reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn ImagesIndiana's Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs after the catch during the Indiana versus Michigan State football game at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025.Nov 1, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs after a catch during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn ImagesNov 8, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) makes a catch in the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn ImagesNov 28, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn ImagesIndiana's Omar Cooper Jr. (3) can't pull in the catch during the Big Ten Championship football game at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) rushes up the field Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, during practice ahead of the Rose Bowl game against Alabama Crimson Tide at Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles.Jan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) celebrates after catching a 1-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) celebrates after making a catch a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesJan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesMiami (FL) Hurricanes defensive back Ethan O'Connor (24) chases after Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) as he rushes the ball Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesIndiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) rushes the ball against the Miami (FL) Hurricanes on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs down the sideline past Miami (FL) Hurricanes defenders Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) and Indiana Hoosiers running back Khobie Martin (28) celebrate on the field Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, after defeating the Miami (FL) Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.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.Omar Cooper Jr. participates in Indiana University's Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is selected by the New York Jets as the number 30 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images1 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosSep 27, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) reacts after a touchdown reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images1 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosSep 27, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) reacts after a touchdown reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images2 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosSep 27, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) reacts with teammates after a touchdown reception against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images3 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana's Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs after the catch during the Indiana versus Michigan State football game at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025.4 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 1, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs after a catch during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images5 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 8, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) makes a catch in the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images6 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosNov 28, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images7 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana's Omar Cooper Jr. (3) can't pull in the catch during the Big Ten Championship football game at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.8 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) rushes up the field Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, during practice ahead of the Rose Bowl game against Alabama Crimson Tide at Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles.9 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images10 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) celebrates after catching a 1-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images11 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) celebrates after making a catch a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images12 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images13 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images14 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosMiami (FL) Hurricanes defensive back Ethan O'Connor (24) chases after Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) as he rushes the ball Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.15 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosJan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images16 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) rushes the ball against the Miami (FL) Hurricanes on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.17 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs down the sideline past Miami (FL) Hurricanes defenders Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.18 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) and Indiana Hoosiers running back Khobie Martin (28) celebrate on the field Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, after defeating the Miami (FL) Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.19 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosIndiana 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.20 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosOmar Cooper Jr. participates in Indiana University's Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.21 / 21Meet Omar Cooper Jr., NY Jets' first-round draft pick in photosApr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is selected by the New York Jets as the number 30 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesRound 1, Pick 12 (via Colts): Ahmad Moten, DT, MiamiIn the offseason, the Jets traded for defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat from the Titans in exchange for Jermaine Johnson.

With four picks in the top-50 selections, there was a good chance the Jets would select a defensive tackle after trading Quinnen Williams prior to last year's trade deadline.