The New York Jets are making moves, and the latest buzz has them eyeing a quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft. Recently, they brought back veteran QB Geno Smith in a trade, but the search for a long-term solution under center might not be over. According to NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr., the Jets could be looking at Alabama's Ty Simpson with their 16th overall pick.
Kiper's mock draft for ESPN suggests that while the Jets don't necessarily need to draft a quarterback right now-especially with Smith as a temporary fix and three first-round picks lined up for 2027-they might find Simpson's potential too enticing to ignore. Simpson, despite having only 15 career starts, has shown impressive accuracy, quick decision-making, and solid pocket presence. With 28 touchdown passes in 2025, he's certainly on the radar as a first-round talent.
Kiper notes that the Jets are in a position where they need to take calculated risks to secure their future at quarterback. Drafting Simpson could allow him to develop under Smith's guidance before eventually stepping into the starting role.
This move comes on the heels of the Jets trading Justin Fields to the Kansas City Chiefs. Fields, who was the Jets' starting QB for most of the 2025 season, struggled to find success, with the team ending the year at 3-14.
With the second overall pick also in their pocket, the Jets are expected to bolster their defense, aiming for a more balanced and competitive team moving forward. The draft strategy could set the stage for a significant turnaround, as the Jets look to rebuild and compete at a higher level.