5 prospects with red flags the Jets must avoid in 2026 NFL Draft

The New York Jets will be in a position to take some risks in the 2026 NFL Draft, as they still have some extra picks in the later rounds, on top of the fact that they have four selections in the Top 50.

This could lead to Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey making some moves they wouldn't be as ready to make in some other drafts. However, there are some lines that might be a bit too far for a power structure that could be out of a job soon.

These five players have some red flags hanging off them, and it might be a bit too much for the Jets to sink so much Draft capital into them.

5 prospects with red flags Jets must avoid in 2026 NFL Draft

5. Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt

There is way too much external nonsense surrounding a 5-foot-10 quarterback with concerns about his ability to adapt to the pro game. Some team will take a flier on him in the sixth or seventh round, but the Jets would be better off leaving him for someone else to deal with.

4. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

While possible No. 16 pick Jordyn Tyson has some injury concerns, Banks was limited to just three games last season and suffered another knock in the pre-draft process that limited his availability. Unless he falls to No. 44, Banks should not be a consideration for the Jets.

3. Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

McCoy may be the best cornerback in the Draft, but when any expectations placed on McCoy are related to what he did in 2024 due to an injury that has him off the field for the entire 2025 season, the Jets are not in a position to sink that much money into someone who could blow up in their face.

2. Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri

Young has a misdemeanor assault charge stemming from a fight during his time at Michigan State, and he was charged with driving while intoxicated in December. With so many of Aaron Glenn's offseason moves being catered around getting mature leadership in the building, Young may not be right for this particular team at this moment.

1. Carson Beck, QB, Miami

Beck was a very successful college quarterback who has the accuracy needed to be a long-term backup in the NFL. The issues stem from abysmal play against pressure and arm strength that appears to have faded when compared to his Georgia tenure. As Day 3 options go, there are more prudent names out there.