Analyzing NY Jets’ Draft: Skip Reese, Trade Breece Hall, Ty Simpson First Round?

The Jets enter the draft period with four premium selections. They hold picks No. 2, No. 16, No. 33 and No. 44. Talk around the league is loud and speculative.

Edge-rusher debate at No. 2

Ohio State’s Arvell Reese and Texas Tech’s David Bailey are the top edge names linked to the second overall pick. Reese is a 20-year-old with elite traits. His 2025 college numbers read 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss.

Bailey produced 14.5 sacks in 2025 and projects as a more finished pass rusher. He fits a 3-4 outside linebacker role but has run-defense limitations.

Aaron Glenn has described the Jets’ defense as multiple. He emphasized varied fronts and heavy nickel usage. That flexibility keeps both prospects viable.

Fit and competing interest

Reese offers positional versatility. He can line up off the ball or rush the edge. Scouts compare his explosiveness to high-level NFL playmakers.

Bailey is seen as a safer, more pro-ready rusher. The Titans and Cardinals reportedly hold interest in him. That could influence trade discussions.

Quarterback considerations and No. 16 pick

Only one surefire first-round quarterback exists in this class, widely viewed as Fernando Mendoza. Alabama’s Ty Simpson is the next notable name.

The Jets met with Simpson extensively. Representatives included Aaron Glenn, Darren Mougey, Frank Reich and Bill Musgrave. The meetings included a pro day visit, a private dinner, and a workout.

Experience and evaluation

Simpson started just one college season. He scrambled 33 times for 207 yards last season. That limited sample raises concerns for many evaluators.

Geno Smith remains under contract for 2026. He is 35 years old. The coaching staff has voiced a preference for quarterbacks with larger samples and specific size/style traits.

As a result, a selection of Ty Simpson at No. 16 feels unlikely to some evaluators. The team may look for a receiver or tight end at that slot instead.

Breece Hall, Jeremiyah Love and roster moves

Running back Breece Hall is on the franchise tag. His tag value sits at $14.29 million. The club and player face a July 15 deadline for a new contract.

The Jets reportedly met with Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love. Love ranks as one of the class’ top talents. That meeting sparked talk about a potential Trade Breece Hall scenario.

Likelihood and front-office stance

Trading Hall while he remains on the tag is possible. Yet the Jets have shown interest in keeping him. Executives say contract talks will resume after the draft.

Given the roster context, many view a blockbuster move exchanging Hall for a top prospect as unlikely. The Love meeting may also have created a competitive market for his services.

Trade-back and alternative selections

The Jets have discussed trading back from No. 2. They seek additional 2026 and 2027 assets, including a missing third-round pick.

Potential trade partners include the Titans, Cardinals, Giants, Commanders and Cowboys. Any deal depends on other clubs’ urgency for specific prospects.

Other players who could draw consideration

• Sonny Styles, Ohio State off-ball linebacker. Combine numbers: 6-5, 244 pounds, 4.46 40, 43.5-inch vertical.
• Caleb Downs, Ohio State safety, praised for playmaking and physicality.
• Carnell Tate, wide receiver, discussed as a potential top prospect at the position.

The Jets have roster needs across multiple positions. That increases the argument for selecting best-player-available rather than adhering to positional norms.

Where things stand

Reese remains a favorite for the No. 2 pick, but Bailey is a credible alternative. The team continues to evaluate multiple directions.

At No. 16, Ty Simpson First Round? remains a debated question. Many believe the club will prefer a receiver or tight end if the right one falls.

Filmogaz.com will continue Analyzing NY Jets’ Draft coverage as the calendar moves closer to draft night.