As we hit the home stretch of the 2025 NFL season, the playoff picture is starting to take shape-and it’s as crowded and chaotic as ever. At the top, teams are jostling for those coveted first-round byes.
In the middle, the bubble is bursting with hopefuls trying to claw their way into the postseason. But then there are teams like the New York Jets, who are looking beyond December and into the future.
It’s been a tough year in New York. Despite head coach Aaron Glenn preaching a culture of resilience and competitiveness, the Jets find themselves in a familiar spot: on the outside looking in.
At 3-11, the postseason isn’t in the cards. But what is in play?
The 2026 NFL Draft-and the Jets are sitting in a position of real intrigue.
Thanks to some savvy maneuvering at the trade deadline, the Jets will walk into the draft with not one, but two first-round picks. That’s the kind of capital that can reshape a franchise, especially one still searching for stability at key positions.
Right now, those picks are projected to land at No. 5 overall (their own) and No. 18 (via the Colts). That gives them a shot at both a premium talent at the top of the board and another impact player in the middle of the round.
Here’s a look at how the full first-round draft order stands as of now:
1. Giants (Record: 2-12)
The Giants are in the driver’s seat for the top pick-and potentially a franchise quarterback if they decide to go that route.
2. Raiders (2-12)
Las Vegas is right there with New York, and their direction in the draft could shape the early board.
3. Titans (2-12)
Tennessee is in full rebuild mode. Expect them to target a cornerstone piece.
4. Browns (3-11)
Cleveland owns their own pick here, but they’ll also be watching another selection later in the round.
5. Jets (3-11)
This is where the Jets could make a splash. Quarterback?
Offensive line? Edge rusher?
They’ll have options.
6. Cardinals (3-11)
Arizona is another team with multiple needs and a high pick to address them.
7. Saints (4-10)
New Orleans has some tough roster decisions ahead, and this pick could be a turning point.
8. Commanders (4-10)
Washington’s defense needs help, but they might also eye a quarterback depending on how the board falls.
9. Bengals (4-10)
It’s been a rough season in Cincinnati. This pick could be used to bolster the offensive line or secondary.
10. Rams (via Falcons)
The Rams are back in the first round thanks to a trade with Atlanta, and they’re in position to add young talent to a roster that’s trying to stay competitive.
11. Dolphins (6-8)
Miami has taken a step back this season. This pick could go a long way in getting them back on track.
12. Chiefs
Even in a down year, Kansas City is still in the playoff mix. But they’ll be looking to reload in the draft.
13. Vikings
Minnesota’s future at quarterback remains a big question. This could be the spot to find an answer.
14. Cowboys (6-7-1)
Dallas holds two first-round picks, and this one-earned the hard way-might be used to fortify the trenches.
15. Ravens (7-7)
Baltimore is hovering around .500 and could use this pick to add depth on either side of the ball.
16. Panthers
Carolina is still trying to build around their young core. This is a key pick in that process.
17. Lions (8-6)
Detroit continues to trend upward. This pick could help push them into true contender status.
18. Jets (via Colts, 8-6)
This is the bonus pick for New York-and it could be just as valuable as their top-five selection. Whether they go for a skill player, a lineman, or even trade down, the flexibility here is huge.
19. Buccaneers (7-7)
Tampa Bay is hanging around in the playoff hunt, but they’ll need to hit on this pick to stay competitive.
20. Steelers (8-6)
Pittsburgh’s defense is still a strength, but this pick could be used to address offensive inconsistencies.
21. Eagles (10-4)
Philadelphia is back in the mix and will be looking to add a piece that keeps them in the NFC elite.
22. Texans (9-5)
Houston has been one of the season’s pleasant surprises. They’ll look to build on that momentum.
23. Cowboys (via Packers)
Dallas’ second pick gives them another shot to add talent to a roster that’s been inconsistent.
24. Bills
Buffalo is trying to stay in the AFC playoff picture. This pick could help them retool for 2026.
25. Bears (10-4)
Chicago has turned things around. Now they need to keep the momentum going with the right draft choice.
26. Chargers (10-4)
Los Angeles is in the thick of the playoff race. A pick this late could still bring in a contributor.
27. Browns (via Jaguars)
Cleveland’s second pick gives them a chance to double up on talent-especially important if they move on from key veterans.
28. 49ers (10-4)
San Francisco remains one of the league’s top teams. This pick is about adding depth and planning for the future.
29. Rams
Their second pick of the round gives them flexibility-maybe even to move up if they see a player they love.
30. Patriots (11-3)
New England is back in double-digit win territory. This pick could be used on a playmaker to open up the offense.
31. Seahawks (12-3)
Seattle is having a strong year and will look to use this pick to keep their core intact.
32. Broncos (12-2)
Denver holds the top record in the league and will close out the round. They’re in a great position to draft for luxury, not need.
For the Jets, having two picks in the top 20 is more than just a silver lining-it’s a potential launching pad. With the right moves, they could come out of the 2026 draft with foundational players on both sides of the ball. It’s been a long season in New York, but the future is starting to take shape.