The New York Jets have put themselves in a position where they have no choice but to take multiple shots at the wide receiver position in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
They've yet to make an addition in free agency, and the only NFL-caliber pass catchers they have on the roster are Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell. It wouldn't surprise anyone if the Jets made at least two additions with their five selections in the top 103 picks.
That's why the Jets are starting to do their homework on some of the lesser-known options in the incoming class, including hosting Louisville wide receiver Chris Bell, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Bell played all four of his collegiate seasons at Louisville and is an intriguing prospect. He certainly has some upside, but is coming off a torn ACL.
Jets host Louisville WR Chris Bell on Top 30 visit
New York would love to have a chance at selecting one of the big three wide receiver prospects in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Ohio State's Carnell Tate, Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson, and USC's Makai Lemon headline the group.
The problem is, at No. 16, there's a real chance all three are off the board by the time the Jets are back on the clock. The Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins, and Los Angeles Rams are all times with noted interest in finding a new wideout to add to their ranks.
If that's the case, the Jets will have to fall back on some other options with either one of their Day 2 picks. Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr., Washington's Denzel Boston, and of course, Bell are among those options.
During his senior season with the Cardinals, Bell was in the midst of his best season yet. He hauled in 72 receptions for 917 yards and six touchdowns. The torn ACL in December cut that season short, but there's hope that he could still be ready for regular-season action for whichever team decides to draft him.
The Jets likely were interested in having their own medical team examine Bell's surgically repaired knee while he was at the facility, ensuring that his rehabilitation is on the right track.
If Bell's medicals are up to snuff, he would be a fine add for New York on Day 2 of the draft, and could have the chance to develop into a legitimate receiving threat alongside Wilson and Mitchell.
