While the NFL season is over in the Meadowlands, one of the biggest events of the year for the league is approaching. The 2026 NFL Draft will be held from Apr. 23-25, with the New York Jets and Giants both holding top picks. The Jets currently have possession of the 2nd and 16th pick, while the Giants have the 5th pick. Both teams also have additional capital in the later rounds of the draft.
Jets Look to Bolster Defense
While the Jets have plenty of needs to address in the draft, their defense will be among the top priorities. There is a variety of defensive talent to choose from, though two players have consistently been paired with the team in draft conversations. Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese and Miami defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. have both drawn significant interest from many teams, including the Jets.
Reese is a high-ceiling player that would pair nicely alongside Will McDonald IV. As a pass rusher, he could cause havoc on the field, pressuring the quarterback and disrupt offensive gameplans. Bain will also enter the league with a high ceiling, as his power and explosiveness can lead to mismatches between offensive linemen. After trading away veteran defensive lineman Quinnen Williams last season, Bain could be an elite replacement to fill his spot in the coming years. With Aaron Glenn set to remain the team’s head coach heading into next season, he will look to use his defensive prowess to help develop the players even further.
With the 16th overall pick, the Jets may shift their focus to an offensive need. The team has already found its top target in Garrett Wilson, but a young talent to pair with him could wreak havoc on opposing defenses. Some of the top wide receivers that could still be available at that spot include Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson and University of South California’s Makai Lemon.
Tyson has shown significant improvement throughout his time at Arizona State, advancing his abilities as a route runner. While he may not be the fastest receiver in the draft, he makes up for it with his talent in making contested catches. On the other hand, Lemon does not have the size advantage that Tyson poses, but is quick to accelerate and can fool defenders. Both players matched alongside Garrett Wilson would form a lethal receiving duo that could be the foundation of a dangerous Jets offense for years to come.
Giants Focus on Protecting Future of Team
The Giants have seemingly found their quarterback of the future in Jaxson Dart, though the team must now make the moves to keep him protected. With the 5th overall pick, there should still be many top offensive line prospects available for the team to choose from. Two of the highest-rated prospects include Miami’s Francis Mauigoa and Utah’s Spencer Fano.
Mauigoa is one of the top offensive line prospects, largely due to his strength, athleticism and high football IQ. While Fano does not pose as much of a physical threat as Mauigoa, he makes up for with his quick feet and athleticism. Both linemen would provide Dart with an extra sense of protection and security when throwing the ball, as well as creating rushing lanes for running back Cam Skattebo.
The 2026 NFL Combine began on Feb. 23 and will run until Mar. 2. During the event, some of the top prospects will be put on display for NFL scouts to examine, including those on the Jets’ and Giants’ boards.