Daniel Jeremiah's latest mock draft has Jets reaching hard at No. 16

The New York Jets did a great job of filling their biggest holes in the first wave of free agency. They added a handful of veteran defenders to improve one of the league's worst units, and added an established guard to replace John Simpson and Alijah Vera-Tucker.

That doesn't mean the roster is complete yet, though, and there are still moves to be made. For example, the Jets have yet to add a wide receiver, and if Minkah Fitzpatrick's recent comments are to be taken to heart about playing primarily nickel cornerback, they need more at safety than just Dane Belton and Andre Cisco.

In Daniel Jeremiah's most recent mock draft, the NFL Network draft expert has the Jets addressing the wide receiver position. But some fans may consider it a massive reach.

Daniel Jeremiah has Jets selecting Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 16

With the No. 2 overall pick, Jeremiah has the Jets selecting Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese. The Buckeye is arguably the most likely pick New York will make come April. His talent is undeniable, and the Jets are in desperate need of a pass rusher. His high upside will be hard to pass up.

But the real issue begins with the No. 16 pick. Jeremiah has the Jets selecting a wide receiver, but with Carnell Tate, Jordan Tyson, and Makai Lemon off the board, New York reaches for Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr.

"Cooper would be an awesome complement to veteran receiver Garrett Wilson. The former Hoosier is a tough pass catcher who can play inside and outside."

Daniel Jeremiah

There's no doubt Cooper is a good prospect. He was an integral piece to the Hoosiers' championship team and was a reliable target for Fernando Mendoza all season long.

But the 16th overall pick? That may be a bit rich. Pro Football Focus has his Adjusted Draft Position (ADP) at around 26.8. Surely, the Jets could attack a different position with more value here?

Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane is available here in Jeremiah's mock draft, and is a player he's projected to the Jets in the past. He could immediately push Dylan Parham for playing time and maybe even force the former Las Vegas Raider to center.

Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman is also available and could put the finishing touch on the Jets' 2026 defensive overhaul, along with Reese.

The Jets need a receiver, that can't be disputed. But if one of the big-three prospects isn't available at No. 16, that shouldn't force New York to make a desperate gamble on a player like Cooper.

They could always wait to pick one up in the second round, at pick No. 33 or No. 44.