Who does PFF have the Jets selecting in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Tennessee defensive back Jermod McCoy (3) reacts after gaining control of a fumble during the second quarter at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. | Stephanie Amador / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

As we approach the big day, Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus has posted a last minute mock draft that has the Jets focused on defense.

2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, EDGE, Ohio State

Reese was a unique player atOhio State, splitting snaps nearly evenly between edge rusher and off-ball linebacker. He recorded 34 defensive stops and 27 pressures in his final season. The Jets defense wasn't a strength last season, but the unit has already been reworked, with six potential new starters added through free agency and trades. Reese could become the center of that defense.

16 .New York Jets: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

The Jets traded awaySauce Gardnermidseason, leaving them with the second-lowest team coverage grade.Brandon Stephenswas the only Jets cornerback to play more than eight games last season. New York addedNahshon Wrightin free agency after his one season as a starter with theChicago Bears.

While theJetscould target a wide receiver, it is more likely they address cornerback here and save wide receiver for another round, given the depth at the position in this class. McCoy missed the 2025 season with an ACL injury but was excellent in 2024, earning an 89.6 coverage grade. He allowed a 50% completion rate when targeted against SEC wide receivers.

I would have to disagree that it's more likely" the Jets will wait until the second round to address wide receiver than at pick 16. Of course it's possible, but receiver is a glaring need, and Jordyn Tyson and Omar Cooper are both on the board in this mock as the Jets make their selection.

Much of free agency was geared toward building the defense for the Jets. Of course so much depends on how the board falls, but I have to say I'd be a bit surprised to see them use both of their first round picks on that side of the ball as well.

I also think using the pick the team received from the Colts for Sauce Gardner on a cornerback propsect and one who missed the entire season with a torn ACL at that would raise some eyebrows.