Since taking over as general manager of the New York Jets, Darren Mougey has developed a good habit when it comes to trades. Last offseason, he put together two impactful trades for the defensive line acquring defensive tackles Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs in separate deals. During the year, he made waves by acquiring four premier draft picks at the trade deadline for defensive stars Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. Meanwhile, New York acquired a starting defensive tackle in T’Vondre Sweat and a new starting quarterback, Geno Smith, in trades with the Tennessee Titans and the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason. However, with less than a month away, could Mougey once again shake things up in the NFL Draft? With all options on the table, New York could move down from second overall, at the right price.
Jets Could Shake the NFL Draft and Trade Down From Two
The NFL Draft is officially less than three weeks away. As we get closer to the day, all eyes are on the second overall pick. It’s presumed that the event will start with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting a quarterback first overall for the second time in 20 years. After signing veteran Kirk Cousins, head coach Klint Kubiak will have a solid mentor for Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza. After them, the New York Jets sit at second overall. Presumably, New York will go with either Ohio State’s Arvell Reese or Texas Tech’s David Bailey to be their edge rusher of the future. However, with the 16th overall pick at their disposal, perhaps New York can maneuver around the board to gain more capital.
Darren Mougey on the possibility of the #Jets trading back from the 2nd overall pick:
"We're always open. We'll always pick up the phone." 👀 📞 pic.twitter.com/1WpzIrO3lt
— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) March 30, 2026
The Case for Trading Down from the Second Pick
Entering this week, the Jets are in a prime position to add a plethora of young talent. Within the first two rounds, New York owns four draft picks within the top 50. As of now, defensive end, linebacker, wide receiver, guard depth, and (perhaps) a developmental quarterback are all needs. It’s an opportunity to add some much-needed help as is. However, after those first four picks, there is one troubling detail. After they pick 44th, New York won’t pick until 104th in the fourth round. The reason? Because the Jets made the ill-fated Haason Reddick trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. As a result, the Eagles possess the Jets third round pick this year.
Arvell Reese, linebacker, Ohio State, 2026 NFL Draft prospect
Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) blocks Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
By trading back, New York can not only gain a third-round pick, but also cement the opportunity to really steal next year’s draft. In 2027, New York will own three first-round picks. Between their own, the Indianapolis Colts pick, and the better of the Green Bay Packers or Dallas Cowboys picks. If they opt for gaining a 2027 first-round pick, New York opens a wide range of doors. Potentially, New York could trade up to first overall for their quarterback of the future, while retaining another first for a prospect like South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart. Or perhaps pair their quarterback with the explosive Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.
Top five 2026 NFL Edge Rushers, Texas Tech DE David Bailey
Oct 25, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive end David Bailey (31) pressures Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Noah Walters (12) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images
Will It Happen?
It’s hard to guarantee something will or won’t happen during the NFL Draft. Prime example, how many predicted Jacksonville trading up to the second pick last year to select Travis Hunter? This is a time when information flies all across the league. Considering the gap in quality in the quarterback class, the suitors for a trade will be limited. Alabama’s Ty Simpson could develop into a long-term starting quarterback, but he’s not projected to go at the top of the draft. Well, perhaps another team would be enamored by adding a possible franchise defensive end like Reese, Bailey, or Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr.?
However, the price for moving up to second overall might be too much. It would likely take two first-round picks to move up for a team outside the top ten. Outside of the Jets, the Browns, Chiefs, Cowboys, and Dolphins are the only other teams with multiple firsts this year. With rumors of the Arizona Cardinals being interested in running back Jeremiyah Love, perhaps someone could wish to move up to two. However, the chance remains unlikely. Instead, New York could move down from 33rd or 44th overall. It should be enough interest to gain a third-round pick still. Whether they stay at second overall or not, this is a great opportunity to significantly impact their rebuild.
Main Photo: [Kirby Lee] – Imagn Images