As the NFL offseason progresses, teams are evaluating their rosters after free agency. Many teams have significant holes to fill and could be limited in their draft flexibility.
One team that certainly fits that description is the New York Jets. They have a number of positions to address, including quarterback.
MORE: Insider reveals stunning quarterback plan by Miami Dolphins
The Jets have been linked to Alabama prospect Ty Simpson throughout the offseason. However, according to a recent report, Simpson may not be very high on their draft board.
March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Quarterback Ty Simpson throws during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.
According to ESPN insider Rich Cimini, the Jets likely won’t select Simpson with the 16th overall pick. This comes despite the fact that they hosted Simpson this week for a draft visit and workout.
Instead, Cimini revealed that the Jets plan to address other needs this year, with the idea of targeting a quarterback in next year’s draft. The team will have three first-round picks next year.
The Jets have been in quarterback purgatory since the merger. While they have shown promise at times, they have ultimately let talented players slip away—most notably Super Bowl champion Sam Darnold.
MORE: 2026 NFL mock draft 2.0: Defensive surge & race for QB2
If Simpson can provide an opportunity for stability, why not take that chance? He has been widely regarded as the clear-cut QB2 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Some analysts—though perhaps with questionable motives—have even suggested he is on par with, or better than, Fernando Mendoza. Regardless, the Jets’ willingness to pass on the position in this draft is puzzling.
The draft will take place in Pittsburgh in a few weeks. Will the Jets prove Cimini right and pass on Simpson?
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