The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off live from Pittsburgh on Thursday, April 23 and the latest crop of rookies will be hearing their names called all weekend long. For the New York Jets, the biggest need is an obvious one: Quarterback.
The Jets brought back Geno Smith for a reunion in the Big Apple, but the 35-year-old Smith is a bridge quarterback at this juncture of his career. Still, he’s an upgrade from what the Jets endured last year, despite the fact that he led the league with 17 interceptions last season with the Raiders. The Jets could join a list of multiple teams that could wait on a QB until next year’s draft.
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Here’s everything you need to know about the New York Jets for this year’s draft, including a round-by-round look at picks and a potential trade candidate already on the roster.
New York Jets NFL Draft best prospect fit: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
Per USA TODAY’s Ayrton Ostly:
New York spent a lot on defense in free agency to lift the floor of the unit as a whole, but still needs productive edge rushers. Bailey is as good as it gets in this class as far as getting to the quarterback goes and would instantly help a turnaround for the Jets’ pass rush.
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NFL DRAFT: Finding the perfect prospect for every team
New York Jets NFL Draft trade candidate: RB Breece Hall
Per USA TODAY’s Jack McKessy:
The Jets placed the franchise tag on Hall this offseason, but if progress stalls on extension talks, Hall could find his way out of New York. The young running back will be 25 in May and was the subject of trade rumors at last year’s deadline. He’s made clear his frustrations with the Jets over the years, including a recent cheeky comment that Gang Green was spending a lot of money in free agency as he still waited for his long-term extension.
MORE: One player for all 32 teams who could be traded during the NFL draft
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New York Jets NFL Draft Picks by round
Round 1
Round 2
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No. 44 (2.12) from Cowboys
Round 3
Round 4
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No. 140 (4.40) Compensatory pick
Round 5
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No. 179 (5.39) Compensatory pick
Round 6
Round 7
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No. 228 (7.12) from Cowboys via Bills and Raiders
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No. 242 (7.26) from Bills via Browns
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York Jets 2026 NFL Draft: Picks, team needs, trade candidates
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