Post-NFL Combine 3-Round Mock Draft: Jets Add Three Defensive Playmakers
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, and after a week of evaluating NFL Draft prospects in Indianapolis, the New York Jets are poised to make strategic selections in late April. The week in Indianapolis saw many players' draft stocks rise and fall, and OnSI presents a three-round mock draft for the Jets, focusing on defensive playmakers.
The Jets' main question mark revolves around the quarterback position. Will they draft a quarterback or find a bridge quarterback for 2027? Or will they prioritize replenishing the trade deadline losses of Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams?
Round 1, Pick 2: Caleb Downs, Safety, Ohio State
Rumors circulate about Caleb Downs, Ohio State's star safety, facing potential medical concerns, including a degenerative knee injury. This pick assumes the news is a smokescreen, as Downs is considered a top-two player alongside Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love. The Jets, seeking versatility, could utilize Downs in various roles within Aaron Glenn's defense.
Round 1, Pick 16: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson emerged as a standout at the Combine, excelling in media availability, team interviews, and medical evaluations. Tyson, along with Carnell Tate and Makai Lemon, forms a top three among wideouts. Despite concerns about Tate's 4.53-second 40-yard dash and rumors about Lemon's character, Tyson's lack of notable setbacks is advantageous. Predicted to run a 4.40-4.45 40-yard dash, Tyson, at 6-foot-2 and 203 pounds, would be a valuable addition to the Jets' offense, supporting Garrett Wilson and the team's future quarterback.
Round 2, Pick 33: Brandon Cisse, Cornerback, South Carolina
South Carolina's Brandon Cisse impressed with a 41-inch vertical and a 10-foot-11-inch broad jump, ranking above the 90th percentile among cornerbacks. The 20-year-old defensive back is a likely first-round pick, and the Jets, trading away a cornerstone, make sense in selecting a potential Sauce Gardner replacement.
Round 2, Pick 44: R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma
Oklahoma's R Mason Thomas, a 22-year-old pass-rusher, flew under the radar at the Combine. With 6.5 sacks in 10 games in 2025 and accolades like First-Team All-SEC and AP Second Team All-American, Thomas is a potential first-round pick. The Jets, landing Thomas, would gain a consistent pass-rusher, providing a significant boost to their defense.
