NFL analyst expects Jets to 'shock the world' in 2026 season

The New York Jets and their head coach, Aaron Glenn, have no choice but to compete in 2026. The second-year coach's job depends on it.

New York can't just be a middle-of-the-pack team next season; they have to be competitive and prove they belong on the field with other competent NFL teams, because they certainly didn't do that in 2025.

At a minimum, the Jets have more talent going into 2026 than they did last year. It should help improve their outlook, but will it be enough for them to have a winning record, or even make the playoffs?

We won't know for sure until the fall, but one NFL analyst believes the Jets are set up to be the league's shocker next season for several reasons.

Analyst says Jets have the potential to be the biggest surprise team in 2026

NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal was asked on NFL Daily which team could shock the world in 2026, and he named the Jets as his pick.

"I like the offseason they had...the offensive line is feeling good because they just got ranked near the top-10 in the NFL Daily offensive line rankings. You go over to the defensive side of the ball, eight new starters...There are going to be moments when Geno (Smith) is out there lighting up opponents, and you are going to think of this segment, and you are going to think, Gregg was right."

Gregg Rosenthal

The areas of the Jets roster that Rosenthal pointed out are the exact reasons why New York should be much improved in 2026, particularly in the trenches.

Gang Green's offensive line was one of the lone bright spots of the team last season, highlighted by former first-round picks at both tackle spots in Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou.

The Jets' defense certainly has a lot more talent as well. No. 2 overall pick David Bailey should give the pass rush some more juice, while veterans Demario Davis and Minkah Fitzpatrick will hold the younger players accountable.

Arguably the biggest wild card, Geno Smith, will be the major determining factor when it comes to how the Jets' season plays out.

If he can revert to his Seattle Seahawks form, the Jets have a shot of being a fringe playoff team. On the other hand, if Smith looks like he did last year with the Las Vegas Raiders, then it could spell the end for the current regime.

Regardless, it's good to know there's at least one analyst out there who has faith in what the Jets are building and is expecting them to shake off that "same old Jets" label.

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