The New York Jets will enter the 2026 NFL season with a rebuilding roster. General manager Darren Mougey is attempting to build the team into a contender, but it’s a multi-year process. The Jets are expected to target a top quarterback prospect in the 2027 NFL draft.
The Jets appear to possess an improved roster, but key depth to overcome unforeseen injuries is still lacking.
The rebuild is nowhere near complete. After an offseason of significant roster turnover, we’re analyzing which Jets positions may lack the necessary depth to thrive in 2026.
Quarterback
The Jets reunited with Geno Smith to be their 2026 starting quarterback, but they’ve failed to acquire an adequate backup to support him. As of now, fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik is expected to serve as the backup quarterback. Klubnik will have to prove ready for that role throughout training camp.
Interior offensive line
The interior offensive line appears relatively strong. Joe Tippmann recently signed a contract extension, Dylan Parham is a new addition, and Josh Myers is reliable at center. The depth is extremely questionable behind them though. An injury to any of three interior starters may have the Jets counting on sixth-round rookie Anez Cooper, or Xavier Newman-Johnson.
Safety
Aaron Glenn’s defense appears to have two solid starters in safety with Andre Cisco healthy again and having traded for Minkah Fitzpatrick. Behind them, sophomore safety Malachi Moore has had a disappointing offseason, and VJ Payne is a seventh-round rookie. The Jets need Fitzpatrick and Cisco to stay healthy and productive.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: What Jets position group lacks the most depth ahead of 2026 NFL season?
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Justin Melo, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
