4 players the Jets should consider trading back into the end of Round 1 for

The New York Jets not only have two picks in the top 16 in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they have No. 33 and No. 44 at their disposal as well. While they could make all of those selections, Darren Mougey's mindset may be a bit different when it comes time to make a pick.

The Jets spent a ton of money in free agency trying to find both cornerstones and role players that can help this team improve, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The depth is much better, which could lead to Mougey swinging for the fences as they try to land an impact player.

Even if the Jets end up using their top two picks, the idea of trading back into the first round, which helped the Jets land Jermaine Johnson II in addition to Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson back in the day, could get Mougey that type of player.

4 players Jets can trade up into first round for in 2026 NFL Draft

4. Emmanuel Pregnon, IOL, Oregon

It seems less and less likely that the Jets will be able to nab Pregnon at No. 33 overall. If they want to take their offensive line from very good to great, the Jets could move up for Pregnon, stick him at left guard right out of the gate, and put Dylan Parham at the center spot.

3. Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

Thieneman was a dream target for many a Jets fan in the last few months, but he is going to be picked much earlier than No. 33 overall after dominating the NFL Combine. Moving up to secure him may not be a bad thought, especially if Minkah Fitzpatrick will play close to the line of scrimmage.

2. Denzel Boston, WR, Washington

Boston makes more sense from a stylistic point of view than names like Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. or Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, who could be picked in a similar range. However, with Boston unlikely to be there at No. 33 overall, he could be a prime trade-up target and instant WR2 next to Garrett Wilson.

1. Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama

Getting Simpson with a late first-rounder might be more financially advantageous for the Jets, as they could get that coveted fifth-year option. Hoping he falls to No. 33 is a solid strategy, but the Jets can use some of their capital to move up for someone they may believe is worthy of being a franchise quarterback.