As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus has released a mock draft suggesting that the New York Jets will focus on bolstering their defense. With the second overall pick, the Jets are projected to select Arvell Reese, an EDGE player from Ohio State, who showcased versatility by playing both edge rusher and off-ball linebacker. He recorded 34 defensive stops and 27 pressures in his final season. Additionally, at the 16th pick, the Jets are expected to choose Jermod McCoy, a cornerback from the University of Tennessee. McCoy, who earned an impressive 89.6 coverage grade in 2024, missed the entire 2025 season due to an ACL injury. The Jets' defense was notably weak last season, and with the recent trade of star cornerback Sauce Gardner, they are looking to improve their coverage, which was among the lowest in the league. While some analysts suggest that the Jets could target a wide receiver later in the draft, the pressing need for defensive reinforcements is likely to guide their first-round selections.