Jets Mock Draft: NY Predicted to Add Dynamic 9.5-Sack Edge

What should the New York Jets' top priority be with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 National Football League Draft?

While the Jets need a quarterback, that's not how New York should use the No. 2 pick in the draft unless Fernando Mendoza isn't selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 pick. Outside of Mendoza, there isn't a quarterback in the 2026 draft class projected in the range of the No. 2 pick.

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Outside of quarterback, the Jets' top needs heading into the offseason are the pass rush, cornerback and wide receiver. Now, the Jets obviously could use pieces everywhere after going 3-14, but those are the three biggest holes. Linebacker Arvell Reese has been the most popular fit for the Jets in mock drafts so far this offseason — and he should be. But Pro Football Focus' Dalton Wasserman had another idea: Rueben Bain Jr., Miami.

The Jets have the No. 2 pick

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) against the Indiana Hoosiers during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

"No. 2. New York Jets: ED Rueben Bain Jr., Miami," Wasserman wrote. "With no other quarterback warranting a selection this high, the Jets opt to add a dominant defensive presence in Rueben Bain Jr. to their defensive line. After nearly leading Miami to a national championship, Bain finished his final college season with a 92.8 PFF grade that ranked second among Power Four edge defenders, trailing only Texas Tech’s David Bailey."

ESPN currently has Bain ranked as the No. 6 overall prospect in the draft class, in comparison to Reese at No. 2. Both are talented, but it just depends on what you're looking for. Reese is a hybrid linebacker who is going to do a bit of everything.

On the other hand, Bain is a pure edge rusher. He had 9 1/2 sacks in 2025 in 16 games and finished his college career with 20 1/2 sacks overall in 38 games. If you get Reese, you're getting a guy you can plug in all over the place on the defensive side of the ball. If you get Bain, you're getting a guy to put at the edge and just go after the quarterback. Both are talented and could help the team. Arguably, Reese is a better fit for the Jets' current defense, but Bain would address a need as well.

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