2026 NFL draft: Surprise position named serious option for Jets at No. 16 pick

The New York Jets may be hiding their true intentions in plain sight ahead of the 2026 NFL draft.

Much of the pre-draft conversation relating to the Jets has centered on edge rusher, wide receiver, and quarterback. Those are obvious needs. They’re easy to connect. But sometimes, the most important moves are the ones that don’t dominate headlines.

Cornerback may be that position for this team. At least it was until now, but according to ESPN, Jermod McCoy has emerged as a legitimate option for New York at No. 16 overall.

The Tennessee standout is widely viewed as one of the top cornerbacks in the class, often ranked just behind Mansoor Delane, the cream of the crop. For a team with uncertainty at the position, the connection makes sense.

And, then, there is uncertainty on both sides. The Jets reshaped their secondary after moving on from Sauce Gardner, leaving questions about who can consistently hold down the outside. There are pieces in place, but not many guarantees. That alone makes cornerback more than just a depth consideration. McCoy brings the type of skill set Aaron Glenn covets.

McCoy has length, speed, and physicality as well as the ability to thrive in man coverage. Injuries kept him off the field last season, but his 2024 tape showed a defender capable of locking down one side of the field.

His ball production speaks for itself. Even after missing time due to injury, his stock hasn’t taken the hit some expected. In fact, his recent 4.4 speed at his pro day may have quieted lingering concerns. Still, there’s risk.

Medical evaluations will play a role in how teams finalize his grade, and some believe that could impact where he ultimately lands. But if the Jets are comfortable with what they’ve seen, the upside may be too difficult to ignore.