5 small-school sleepers Jets can target in 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft will be a time for the best and brightest college programs to send a dozen players to the professional ranks, but teams like the New York Jets will also try to make some additions from less-heralded schools.

There are a few guys who didn't come from the four big conferences who will not only be picked high but also possess the traits needed to make a strong transition to the NFL level. The Jets will need to bring in at least one of these guys in their 2026 class.

These five players are all coming from small schools, but they could turn out to be better players than similarly graded prospects from top schools if they adjust well to Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn's scheme.

5 small-school prospects Jets can add in 2026 NFL Draft

5. Eli Heidenreich, WR/RB, Navy

Heidenreich was a wide receiver in a service academy triple-option, which leads many to believe running back will be his position at the next level. With special teams and pass-catching upside, Heidenreich could compete for WR5 and RB3 at the same time.

4. Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin

The Lumberjacks' star managed to find his way on NFL radars after showing tremendous ball skills (nine career interceptions) and the speed to match. While rarely matched up against NFL-level route-runners, the physical tools may be worth developing as a backup,

3. Skyler Bell, WR, UConn

If you remove his drop issues, which will cause him to slide in the draft, Bell has the physical tools needed to be a top-50 pick and fringe WR2 at the NFL level. The verticality, quickness, and ball-tracking deep down the field are all qualities, and the Jets may snatch him up if he is there in the fourth round.

2. Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State

The lone season of starting experience and low volume of passes are both concerning for the southpaw slinger, but Payton might be able to win a team like the Jets over due to his tremendous deep accuracy, playmaking as a runner, and ability to navigate pressure in the pocket.

1. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

McNeil-Warren is not only a great small-school prospect; he's such a great NFL prospect that New York may run up to the podium to take him if he slips to No. 33 overall. His combination of size, hitting power, and ball skills, paired with some sharp instincts in zone coverage, would make him an immediate starter.