Jets seven-round NFL mock draft 5.0: Two trades create some changes

April 21, 2026

Jets Draft Predictions: A Final Look Ahead

It might feel like we’ve been criticizing the Jets’ draft choices since, well, October. And honestly, we have.

After the Jets’ rough start last season, going 0-7, everyone—fans and analysts alike—started speculating about the NFL Draft and how the Jets could revamp their roster. The chatter intensified when they made trades involving Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams for additional valuable picks this year and next.

Now, after months of back-and-forth, it’s almost time to see what general manager Darren Mousey and coach Aaron Glenn actually have in mind when the draft kicks off on Thursday.

In the meantime, here’s another mock draft just to keep the conversation going.

Round 1, 2nd Overall: Abel Reese, Edge, Ohio State University

Previously considered for this pick: David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech (perhaps a trade down to pick Reese at No. 4).

Reese versus Bailey has been a hot topic for weeks. But, instinctively, I lean toward Reese. I can’t shake the feeling that he’s the guy the Jets want, despite all the chatter about Bailey. Plus, the cancellation of the visit with Bailey is significant. It baffles me why a team would skip a chance to connect with a player for the No. 2 pick.

Reese isn’t exactly a finished product as a pass rusher yet, but he brings varied skills to the defense that can make an immediate impact.

Round 1, 16th Overall: Trade picks 16th and 103rd to the Panthers for picks 19th and 51st.

What I previously suggested: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; trading up to get Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State.

I suspect there’ll be a rush on tackles around this time, but even if the Jets drop down in the draft, they can still grab a solid receiver.

Round 1, 19th Overall: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State University

Some say Tyson won’t still be on the board here, but in this scenario, he was. If I mocked Shedur Sanders in the fifth round last year, folks probably would’ve thought it was wild. The draft can be unpredictable.

Tyson might be the top receiver in this draft, although he does have health concerns. If the Jets’ medical team clears him, they should consider him—a playmaker who could shine.

Round 2, 33rd Overall: Trade picks No. 33 and 140 to the Cardinals for pick No. 34 and a second-round pick in 2027.

Previous thoughts included: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida; trading down with the Dolphins; Denzel Boston, WR, Washington; CJ Allen, LB, Georgia.

It’s that time again! I think the Jets could generate interest for this pick come Friday afternoon before Game 2. By moving down one spot with the Cardinals, they’d gain a 2027 second-rounder, which is perceived to hold more value.

Round 2, 34th Overall: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

Woods was thought to be a top-five pick at one juncture but had a rough year that led to a fall in rankings. Glenn could use another piece for the defensive line.

Round 2, 44th Overall: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

Previous picks included: Brandon Cisse, CB, USC; AJ Halsey, S, LSU.

Definitely picking up on a defensive trend here. I believe the Jets need reinforcements on that side, and Allen could be a key player. Drafting both him and Reese might push them to consider trading Jamian Sherwood for a 2027 pick.

Round 2, 51st Overall: Traydan Stokes, DB, Arizona State/South Carolina

Stokes has the versatility to play multiple positions, including cornerback and safety. I see him as a potential long-term starter for the Jets in the safety role, especially with the recent additions of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Dane Belton.

Round 5, 179th Overall: Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas

Previous suggestions included Bryce Boettcher, LB, Oregon State; Dontae Corleone, DT, Cincinnati; Drew Allard, QB, Penn State; Marlin Klein, TE, Michigan State.

I’m a bit frustrated since they had to forfeit a fourth-round pick earlier, but this is the cost of doing business. With my first pick on day three, I’d take a chance on the quarterback. Green might need some development, but he has athletic potential.

Round 7, 228th Overall: Colin Wright, CB, Stanford

Previous thoughts featured Luke Altmaier, QB, Illinois; Marlin Klein, TE, Michigan; Deven Eastern, DT, Minnesota; Andre Fuller, CB, Toledo.

Even though Frank Reich is now the offensive coordinator, he had a role as a defensive leader at Stanford, which brings some interesting dynamics to consider.