The New York Jets' quest for a franchise quarterback has felt like an epic saga since the days of the legendary Joe Namath. Unfortunately, it seems that search will extend for at least another season. The current draft class doesn't boast many can't-miss quarterback prospects, but the 2027 class is already shaping up to be a different story, with several top-tier talents expected to go early.
Fortunately for the Jets, they're well-armed with three first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. This gives them the flexibility to maneuver up and down the board, depending on how their 2026 season unfolds. But according to Bleacher Report's dream trade scenario, the Jets could gain even more leverage in that quarterback-rich draft class.
Imagine the Jets securing a fourth first-round pick for 2027. Moe Moton from B/R suggests that trading back in the 2026 draft could land them that extra pick, increasing their total to four. This strategy would allow General Manager Darren Mougey to play the long game, potentially securing a top quarterback prospect and other elite talents in the next offseason.
For Jets fans, trading back in the 2026 NFL Draft might seem like a no-brainer. With no generational talents on the board, despite the skills of players like Ohio State's Arvell Reese or Texas Tech's David Bailey, the opportunity to stockpile picks for 2027 is enticing.
The 2027 draft class is brimming with potential stars, including quarterbacks like Texas' Arch Manning, Oregon's Dante Moore, and South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers. And let's not overlook non-quarterback prospects like Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith. With four first-round picks, the Jets could do just about anything, even trading up to secure the No. 1 spot if they choose to package their picks.
Alternatively, they could take inspiration from the 2000 NFL Draft, the last time they had four first-round selections. That year, they drafted players who had long, successful NFL careers: Shaun Ellis, John Abraham, Chad Pennington, and Anthony Becht.
No matter how they play it, landing an extra pick in 2027 could be a game-changer for the Jets. Of course, in any NFL trade, it takes two willing parties, so another team would need to be eager to move up. But with the Jets' current positioning, the possibilities are as exciting as they are numerous.