Jets insider Rich Cimini, who has been closely following the team for a long time, believes the New York Jets will pass on a quarterback in the first round. Fans are desperate for a future star at the position but the team holds all the leverage here. With three top picks next year, the front office can afford to wait instead of gambling onTy Simpson. In the NFL, taking your time usually beats making a move just because the pressure is on.
New York Jets Prioritize Roster Depth Over Ty Simpson
The New York Jets hold the 16th overall pick in the upcoming draft. Many analysts recently linked the team to Alabama passer Ty Simpson. However, the organization currently focuses on immediate roster holes rather than a developmental quarterback.
New York Jets Ty Simpson
Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson (QB17) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
General Manager Darren Mougey owns significant draft capital for the 2027 season. The Jets possess 3 first-round picks next year. This massive inventory allows the front office to wait for a better quarterback class.
Rich Cimini covers the team for ESPN and understands their internal logic. “I’ve been around the organization a long time. Based on what I know, I’d be a little surprised if they took him at 16, only because they have so many other needs,” Ciminisaid.
“With three [first-round] picks in next year’s draft, the Jets do not feel like they are pressured to take [a quarterback] this year.”@RichCimini says New York is evaluating all options at QB ahead of their private workout with Ty Simpson ✍️ pic.twitter.com/c9Xim1RDCt
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) March 27, 2026
The team needs starters at offensive tackle, wide receiver, and edge rusher right now. The current quarterback room features veteran Geno Smith. New York acquired him from the Las Vegas Raiders via trade this offseason.
Smith returns to the franchise to provide a steady hand for the offense. Statistically, Smith represents a middle-tier bridge option for the team. He earned a 68.6 PFSN NFL QB Impact score last season.
That number ranked him 34th among all league quarterbacks. The front office views Smith as a short-term stabilizer. He allows the team to build a competitive environment without rushing a rookie.
Management does not feel internal pressure to reach for a passer at 16. Ty Simpson remains an interesting prospect with a high ceiling. Several teams across the league view him as a long-term project.
The Jets evaluated him thoroughly but likely prefer established talent for the current roster. Drafting a quarterback in the middle of the first round is risky. Teams often fail when they pick a passer out of desperation.
The Jets want to avoid this common mistake by using their 2027 picks instead. The organization wants players who contribute on the field immediately. A backup quarterback does not help a team trying to win games now.
New York plans to use their premium assets on the offensive line or defense. Patience is a rare trait for NFL franchises under media scrutiny. Success in 2026 depends on filling veteran roles rather than chasing a dream for the future.