Jets Predicted to Take 1st-Round QB in 2026 NFL Draft

New York could take a big swing at quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:22pm

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According to ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr., the New York Jets are projected to use their two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft to address their quarterback needs. Kiper has the Jets selecting edge rusher David Bailey out of Texas Tech with the 2nd overall pick, and then taking Alabama QB Ty Simpson with the 16th overall pick they acquired from the Colts.

Why it matters

The Jets have struggled to find a long-term solution at quarterback in recent years, and drafting Simpson in the first round would give them a chance to develop a young QB behind veteran Geno Smith, who the team traded for last week. While the 2027 QB class is expected to be stronger, Kiper believes Simpson has the potential to grow into the face of the franchise.

The details

In Kiper's mock draft, the Jets would use their first pick (2nd overall) on edge rusher David Bailey out of Texas Tech. Then with the 16th overall pick acquired from the Colts, the Jets would select Alabama QB Ty Simpson. Simpson is described as an accurate passer who processes the game quickly and moves well in the pocket, throwing 28 touchdown passes in 2025. The Jets don't necessarily have to start Simpson right away, as they can let him learn behind Geno Smith before transitioning him into the starting role.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Mel Kiper Jr.

An ESPN analyst who provides NFL draft analysis and projections.

David Bailey

A defensive end prospect from Texas Tech University projected to be a high first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ty Simpson

A quarterback prospect from the University of Alabama who is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Geno Smith

A veteran quarterback who the Jets recently traded for to serve as a bridge option until they find their long-term solution at the position.

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What they’re saying

“Simply put, New York has to take some swings to figure out the long-term solution under center.”

— Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Analyst (Sporting News)

What’s next

The Jets will have to evaluate Ty Simpson and other quarterback prospects closely leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft to determine if he is the right long-term solution at the position.

The takeaway

The Jets' search for a franchise quarterback continues, and they appear poised to use an early first-round pick in 2026 to try and find their QB of the future, either with Ty Simpson or another top prospect. This reflects the team's urgency to solve their ongoing issues at the most important position in the sport.