Buffalo Bills fans are keeping a close eye on their AFC East rivals, the New York Jets, as the Jets prepare to make a pivotal decision at the 2026 NFL Draft. With the Las Vegas Raiders expected to make an obvious choice with the top pick, all eyes are on the Jets at No.
- The question buzzing around the league is whether the Jets will take Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, especially after ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky has been vocal about his potential.
Orlovsky has been championing Simpson over Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, arguing that Simpson’s contributions to Alabama in 2025 make him the standout quarterback of this draft class. According to Orlovsky, Simpson’s ability to carry his team was unmatched, a sentiment he has shared widely, including on The Pat McAfee Show. He mentioned that many NFL decision-makers agree with his assessment, adding weight to his argument.
This buzz around Simpson is causing quite the stir for Jets general manager Darren Mougey. While it’s unclear if Mougey shares Orlovsky’s view, the growing consensus could complicate the Jets' plans.
As reported by Charlie Baduini of The Jets Press, the Jets have been considering Simpson, but taking him at No. 16 might be too high a price given their numerous roster needs. They might have hoped to grab him later in the draft, but Orlovsky’s endorsement could change that strategy.
For Bills fans, this scenario is intriguing. If Simpson’s stock rises due to Orlovsky’s influence, the Jets might be forced to take him at No. 2, disrupting their offseason plans. The Jets have several holes to fill, and investing heavily in a quarterback who might not contribute immediately is a risky move.
Despite the excitement, Bills fans should temper their expectations. The draft is still a month away, and perceptions can shift rapidly. If another team values Simpson more than the Jets, New York might have to pivot to another option in what’s considered a weak quarterback class.
Regardless of the outcome, the Jets find themselves in a challenging position. Whether or not they decide to gamble on Simpson, the situation underscores the pressure and unpredictability that come with high-stakes draft decisions. For Bills fans, watching the drama unfold is just another chapter in the rivalry.