Top 5 players Jets can pick on Day 2 of NFL Draft after first-round haul

For the second time in five years, the New York Jets have made three first-round picks in one NFL Draft. While the 2026 NFL Draft started off with some surprise by taking David Bailey over favorite Arvell Reese at No. 2 overall, the Jets followed that move with a pair of pass catchers in tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 16 and No. 30, respectively.

The Jets still own the No. 44 overall pick in the Draft. While trading down could make sense, as the Jets will not pick again until No. 103 overall without another move, there are a handful of standout players who could make an immediate impact on this team, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

These five players stand out above the rest as the clear best available names the Jets can target at No. 44 overall, as all of them should compete for starting roles despite their status as professional neophytes.

Top 5 players available for Jets on Day 2 of 2026 NFL Draft

5. Treydan Stukes, DB, Arizona

Stukes might be the most versatile defensive back on the board, as the safety/corner/nickel hybrid has been gaining steam lately. After using none of their top three picks on defensive backs, Stukes could be the pick at 44 if teams are scared off by him being 25 in his rookie season.

4. Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State

Why not make up for Bailey's lack of run defense by adding the best run defender still on the board? McDonald would slot right in as a starter on New York's defensive line, and his lack of pass-rush upside can be mitigated by some of the new additions the Jets have made in the offseason.

3. Emmanuel Pregnon, IOL, Oregon

The Jets' best chance to add an offensive lineman would be at No. 44 overall. Pregnon is a rock-solid mover on the interior who can beat up even the biggest defensive tackles with his raw power. Pregnon could start at left guard and kick Dylan Parham over to center.

2. Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

McCoy fell out of the first round due to his medical concerns, as he had a legitimate case to be made for the No. 1 cornerback in this class despite missing all of 2025. The Jets can land a premium talent for well below market value if they are comfortable with his health.

1. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, SAF, Toledo

McNeil-Warren making it out of the first round was a bit of a surprise given his immense physical talent. The Jets' secondary needs either an impact safety or a dominant corner, and if they lean toward the former, EMW could knock Dane Belton or Malachi Moore out of a starting spot.

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