Jan. 20, 2026, 6:03 p.m. ET
The New York Jets undeniably kept a close eye on Monday’s National Championship Game between Indiana and Miami. The Hoosiers ultimately prevailed 27-21 in a nailbiter. While the Jets had to watch a quarterback in Fernando Mendoza they unfortunately won’t possess an opportunity to select at No. 2 overall, a number of other 2026 NFL draft prospects also impressed.
We’ve identified three prospects who left an impression on the Jets during the National Championship.
Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. made a handful of eye-popping plays as a pass rusher and run stopper. Bain is expected to be a divisive prospect throughout the pre-draft process due to short arm length and true positional fit questions. He responded to those criticisms with two sacks and should be on the Jets’ radar at No. 2 overall.
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
Cornerback is a huge need in Aaron Glenn’s defensive backfield. The Jets didn’t record a single interception during the 2025 season and also traded away Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner. Indiana’s D’Angelo Ponds is undersized, but possesses the highly competitive approach the Jets want in their cornerbacks. Ponds had three pass breakups on Monday.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami
If the Jets don’t draft Bain at No. 2, his running mate, Akheem Mesidor should garner consideration from Darren Mougey later. Mesidor possesses inside-outside versatility and could be a unique player for Glenn’s defensive line. He’s competitive, tough, and long.