April 2, 2026, 3:40 p.m. ET
The New York Jets appear to be taking a “best available” approach in Lance Zierlein’s latest 2026 NFL draft mock.
The NFL.com analyst does not have the Jets reaching in the first round for a quarterback. Rather, key positions on defense are addressed in the mock.
With New York’s two selections in the Round 1 mock, at No. 2 and 16 overall, the Jets are predicted to pick two defenders from Ohio State.
The first is a popular name linked to New York’s selection at second overall, Arvell Reese. The other is safety Caleb Downs.
Zierlein’s breakdown on both players to the Jets can be found below:
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Round 1, No. 2 overall: Arvell Reese, Ohio State
GM Darren Mougey has loads of draft capital and should be allowed the runway to build his squad. Reese is an unpolished diamond, but the Jets can take a swing on the upside.
Round 1, No. 16 overall: Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Downs’ slide stops with the Jets, who should be overjoyed to add a culture player offering a tremendous competitive nature and the ability to play strong safety and some nickel.