Why the New York Jets Could Dominate the 2027 NFL Draft in the 2026 Season
A new NFL regular season is just around the corner. While the spotlight often shines on which teams will reach SoFi Stadium for Super Bowl 61 next February, there’s another intriguing storyline to watch unfold: the fate of several first-round draft picks for the 2027 NFL Draft.
At present, three teams can claim someone else’s first-round pick. Among them, the New York Jets—who are known for their continuous rebuilding efforts—hold two additional firsts. This is largely due to significant midseason trades involving key defensive players. Let’s take a look at how the 2026 regular season might influence the 2027 NFL Draft order.
How the Jets Acquired Their First-Round Picks
Similar to last year, the Jets are set to have three first-round picks next April. They traded cornerback ‘Sauce’ Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts, acquiring their 2026 and 2027 first-round picks in return. The 2026 season was quite rocky for the Colts. Additionally, the Jets received another 2027 first after the Cowboys picked up defensive tackle Quinnen Williams midseason. This gives the Jets a substantial draft capital advantage, and one of their original picks is likely to land in the top 10. However, the situation with one of their extra picks adds a twist.
What’s the Catch with the Quinnen Williams Trade?
In this trade, Dallas will send the Jets either their own pick or the Packers’ first-round pick—whichever is better. This means that whichever team, the Cowboys or Packers, finishes with the worse record will see their pick go to the Jets.
2026 Expectations for the Colts
The Colts have struggled with mediocrity over the years. Last season saw them start strong at 8-2, only to collapse to an 8-9 finish after losing quarterback Daniel Jones to a season-ending injury. The team has retained Jones, who is set to return for Week 1. Still, his performance will likely determine the Colts’ success. If they lack solid QB play and if Jonathan Taylor struggles to remain elite, they might face significant losses. Their projected win total is set at 7.5, and I think Jets fans are definitely hoping for the under to come through, ideally landing that pick in the teens or better.
2026 Expectations for the Cowboys
The Cowboys’ offense is playoff-ready, whereas the defense raised some eyebrows, leading to the firing of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. If Brian Schottenheimer’s offense continues to shine this year, the revamped Cowboys defense just needs to hold steady to make a return to the postseason, which they haven’t seen since 2023.
2026 Expectations for the Packers
Despite being the 7-seed for three straight years, the Packers are still considered NFC contenders. However, concerns linger regarding their defense, especially with Micah Parsons out until at least October due to injury. Furthermore, the running game might falter now that Josh Jacobs is facing league suspension. Essentially, it all hinges on whether the Cowboys or Packers end up with a poorer record. If either team does well, the Jets can expect their 2027 first-rounder to land in the 20s.
Will the Jets and Colts Face Each Other This Season?
No, they won’t, but the Colts do have a game against the Cowboys, which could impact the outcome of Dallas’ original first-round pick and, subsequently, whether it goes to the Jets.
Will the Jets Play Either the Cowboys or Packers?
Interestingly, the Jets will not face the Cowboys, but their home opener is against Green Bay in Week 2.
How the Dallas Cowboys Got Their Extra First-Round Pick
The Cowboys acquired their extra first-round picks after trading Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers, which cost the Packers their 2026 and 2027 firsts. However, that 2027 pick might soon be rerouted to the Jets through the Quinnen Williams deal.
Do the Cowboys and Packers Play Each Other This Season?
Yes, and fans are hoping for a repeat of last year’s thrilling 40-40 tie in Arlington. This year’s matchup is set for Week 6 at Lambeau Field during Sunday Night Football, and it’s possible Parsons may make his season debut by then.
How the Cleveland Browns Acquired Their Extra First-Round Pick
The Browns made headlines by trading Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams in a major deal. In a different scenario, Garrett could have fetched multiple firsts. However, they managed to get young talent Jared Verse instead of a 2028 first-rounder.
2026 Expectations for the Rams
The Rams are considered under pressure, as anything less than a return to the NFC Championship Game—or another Super Bowl appearance—would be viewed as a significant failure. This pick is projected to fall in the 29-32 range, giving the Browns the potential to hold both the first and last picks in the first round.
Do the Browns and Rams Face Each Other This Season?
No, and honestly, it’s hard to say if such a matchup would be thrilling to watch. There might be some Browns fans hoping both teams stumble this season, but it’s clear one of them is more likely to struggle.
