Connor Hughes just fueled a growing draft feeling Jets fans cannot shake

Arguably, the New York Jets' biggest need heading into the 2026 NFL Draft is wide receiver, considering the fact that they've yet to add one in free agency.

Throughout the pre-draft process, the Jets have been consistently predicted in mock drafts to add a wideout with the No. 16 overall pick, but as we get closer to the start of the first round, it's seeming more and more likely that class's big three prospects will be off the board by then.

The Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Los Angeles Rams all jump out as teams who could select Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Makai Lemon ahead of the Jets at No. 16, and they may have no choice but to settle for one of the lesser options, like Omar Cooper Jr. or Denzel Boston.

Or, the Jets could get aggressive and look to move up from No. 16 to land a pass catcher of their choosing, as has long been rumored.

Connor Hughes reports Jets have explored trading up for a WR

SNY's Connor Hughes indicated in his pre-draft column that the Jets are doing background work on a potential trade up into the top 10 for one of the draft's best wide receivers.

In his report, an anonymous coach told Hughes that Tate and Tyson are considered the two best options at wide receiver in the draft and that there's a "gap" to the next few prospects. Despite that, there are still concerns with both prospects.

"The problem with these two is it’s easy to see how it goes wrong. Tate if he doesn’t develop, Tyson if he can’t stay healthy. You have egg on your face."

Anonymous NFL coach

Regardless, the Jets need help at pass catcher, which is why New York has "explored that possibility" of trading up for either Tate or Tyson.

Tate is the safer option. Despite not being as explosive as Tyson, he brings a certain floor to the table that will complement Garrett Wilson well. He may be best utilized as a WR2.

Tyson, on the other hand, may be the biggest boom-or-bust prospect in the entire class. He has true No. 1 potential, but there are real injury concerns. He suffered a major knee injury in 2022, broke his collarbone in 2024, and dealt with hamstring issues throughout 2025.

We'll see if the Jets do end up pulling the trigger on a trade up for one of the aforementioned pass catchers, or wait and see how the board shakes out until they're back on the clock at No. 16.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow