Could Adonai Mitchell impact the Jets' 2026 NFL Draft plans?

With Sauce Gardner in Indianapolis and Quinnen Williams wearing a Cowboys uniform, Garrett Wilson is the last high-profile player standing from the New York Jets’ most recent rebuild attempt.

At least Geno Smith returns to the Jets with Wilson, the 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year, entrenched as his top receiver.

Unfortunately for Smith, Wilson is currently his only proven target in the wide receiver room. That is, unless former Colts receiver Adonai Mitchell — who flashed after arriving in the Gardner trade — can cement himself as the Jets’ WR2.

In fact, it’s fair to wonder whether Mitchell’s presence could convince the Jets to forego prioritizing receiver in the upcoming draft.

What to know about Jets receiver Adonai Mitchell

Any conversations regarding the Jets and draft-eligible receivers must start with the trio of Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, and Jordyn Tyson.

Tate and Lemon are widely expected to go within the first 20 picks. Although Tyson impressed at Arizona State the last two years, he has an extensive injury history, including 2022 knee surgery.

Tyson has also missed time with hamstring injuries and did not run at the NFL Combine or Arizona State’s Pro Day.

If Tate or Lemon is available at No. 16, then that complicates this conversation. At the same time, the Jets have so many pressing needs that they might be better off waiting on a receiver.

Mitchell recorded 24 catches for 301 yards and two touchdowns in eight games and four starts for the Jets. He is a 6-foot-2, 205-pound weapon with an excellent blend of size and speed.

During a pre-draft scouting report in 2024, NFL Media’s Lance Zierlein predicted that Mitchell would grow into an above-average starter.

“Mitchell can beat press and has the speed to take the battle to the third level but he’s still learning the art of bullying the catch space in tight quarters and jump-ball battles,” Zierlein wrote. “He’s not always a natural hands-catcher, but his ability to snare balls outside his frame is top-notch.”

If Aaron Glenn and new offensive coordinator Frank Reich feel similarly, then the Jets should consider foregoing drafting a receiver in the later rounds.

Mitchell doesn’t turn 24 until October, and he still has two years left on his rookie contract. Both factors work in the Jets’ favor, especially if they add a quarterback in the draft.

Again, none of this is to say the Jets should pass on Lemon or Tate solely because Mitchell is on the roster.

If the Jets believe that Lemon or Tate is worth drafting at No. 16, then they should take them. Things are that simple.

Besides, the Jets have had enough misfortune over the years that they’re due for some good luck. Right?