2026 NFL draft: ESPN intel on what Jets' quarterback plan could be

TL;DR

The New York Jets have three top-33 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, including No. 2 overall, allowing them to significantly reshape their roster. While the focus is on their first pick, the strategy may involve building depth across multiple positions rather than just targeting a star quarterback.

The New York Jets aren’t just picking early. They’re picking often, and that changes everything. Armed with three selections in the top 33 (including No. 2, No. 16, and No. 33 overall), they have a rare opportunity to reshape the roster in a single NFL Draft weekend.

That kind of draft capital doesn’t just allow for improvement. It demands direction. According to ESPN, that direction may already be taking shape. While much of the attention has centered on what the Jets will do at No. 2, the real story may lie in how they approach their first three picks as a whole. This isn’t just about landing a star at the top. It’s about building a foundation across multiple positions.

Draft analyst provides some perspective on what the Jets may be thinking.

One of ESPN's latest digs, 2026 NFL draft: Latest intel, questions for 32 teams' picks, may provide some insight on what the Jets might be thinking. The quarterback position remains part of the conversation. It always is. Still, with Geno Smith back in the fold, the urgency to force a move at No. 2 may not be as high as some expect.

That opens the door for a best-player-available approach, something teams with multiple premium picks are uniquely positioned to execute. That’s where things get interesting. The Jets can afford to be flexible. They can address immediate needs while still keeping an eye on the future. They can add impact players early and still circle back for value as the board unfolds.

Few teams have that luxury, and that’s the key takeaway. This isn’t a draft where New York has to reach.

The 2026 draft is one where they can finally let the board come to them, and for a franchise searching for stability, that might be the most important development of all. This is an opportunity to add key pieces to the roster who can grow into cornerstone pieces.

Simply put, the Jets don’t have to force the future. If they get this right, this won’t just be a good draft. It could be the one that finally changes everything.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 2026 NFL draft: ESPN intel on what Jets' quarterback plan could be

Q&A

What are the New York Jets' draft picks in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The New York Jets hold three selections in the top 33, specifically No. 2, No. 16, and No. 33 overall.

How might the Jets approach their quarterback situation in the 2026 NFL Draft?

With Geno Smith returning, the Jets may not feel the urgency to draft a quarterback at No. 2, focusing instead on building a strong foundation across various positions.

What is the significance of the Jets' draft capital in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Jets' significant draft capital allows them to reshape their roster effectively, emphasizing the need for a clear strategy in utilizing their top picks.