Jets Grab Edge Rusher, Wide Receiver in 2026 NFL Mock Drafts

New York Jets have two top-16 picks to address key needs after NFL Combine

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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In the latest 2026 NFL Mock Drafts following the NFL Combine, the New York Jets are projected to select edge rusher Arvell Reese from Ohio State with their first pick at No. 2 overall, and wide receiver Makai Lemon from USC with their second pick at No. 16 overall. The Jets have multiple options to address their roster needs on both offense and defense with their two top-16 selections.

Why it matters

The Jets are in rebuild mode and need to capitalize on their high draft position to add impact players on both sides of the ball. With a new head coach in Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, the team is looking to the draft to infuse their roster with young talent that can help turn the franchise around.

The details

Several draft experts have the Jets selecting Reese, an athletic edge rusher who impressed at the combine, and Lemon, a versatile wide receiver who could complement the Jets' existing receiving corps. Some analysts believe the Jets may need to trade up to secure Lemon, given his rising draft stock. The team also has the option to go with a defensive player like cornerback Avieon Terrell from Clemson to replace the departed Sauce Gardner.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April 2026.

The players

Arvell Reese

A highly athletic edge rusher from Ohio State who had an outstanding performance at the 2026 NFL Combine, showcasing his speed, explosion, and physicality that have scouts raving about his potential.

Makai Lemon

A versatile wide receiver from USC who was one of the most productive receivers in the FBS last season, averaging over 96 receiving yards per game and forcing 21 missed tackles, making him an enticing target for the Jets to pair with Garrett Wilson.

Avieon Terrell

A cornerback prospect from Clemson who has the profile of a starting outside cornerback in the NFL, which could make him an attractive option for the Jets to replace the departed Sauce Gardner in their secondary.

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What they’re saying

“Reese had one of the most impressive workouts at this year's combine — full stop. His athletic testing was outstanding, as expected, but his on-field performance was even more remarkable. His blend of speed, explosion, and violence separates him in this class. 'Dude stole the freaking show,' an NFL scout said.”

— Dane Brugler, NFL Draft Analyst (The Athletic)

“The Jets have four selections in the top 44, which gives them the ability to move up to add to a wide receiver room that consists of Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, and not much else. Lemon is a versatile player who can win from the outside or in the slot. His physical traits won't wow many, but he's capable of winning against all types of coverage.”

— Jordan Reid, NFL Draft Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Jets will have a busy offseason as they look to finalize their draft plans and address other roster needs through free agency and trades. Their two top-16 picks will be critical in shaping the future of the franchise.

The takeaway

The Jets' 2026 NFL Draft strategy appears to be focused on adding impact players on both offense and defense to kickstart their rebuild under the new coaching staff. By targeting a premier edge rusher and a versatile wide receiver, the team is looking to infuse their roster with young talent that can help turn the franchise around in the coming years.