Jets 2026 NFL Draft: Could NY Trade Up for QB Ty Simpson?

The New York Jets are navigating a significant rebuild, a process they’ve embraced by trading away established stars for future draft capital. That strategy is now poised to potentially land them a quarterback in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, with Alabama’s Ty Simpson emerging as a strong possibility.

The Jets currently hold a substantial collection of draft picks, including five first-round selections over the next two drafts. This stockpile gives General Manager Darren Mougey considerable flexibility to aggressively pursue a franchise quarterback. NFL.com’s Dan Parr recently proposed a trade scenario in a mock draft that would see the Jets move up from the No. 33 overall pick to No. 28, swapping picks with the Los Angeles Rams and adding a fourth-round pick in both 2026 and 2027 to secure Simpson.

Simpson officially declared for the draft on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, after a standout season for the Crimson Tide. He completed nearly 65 percent of his passes for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, earning second-team All-SEC honors. His performance reportedly led to positive evaluations from NFL teams, solidifying his status as a potential first-round pick.

Despite his impressive statistics and rising stock, questions remain about Simpson’s overall readiness. He spent three years as a backup at Alabama before becoming the starter in 2025, giving him only 15 career starts. Some analysts suggest this limited experience presents a significant risk. However, his mental acuity and poise in the pocket are frequently cited as strengths, suggesting a relatively quick transition to the professional level.

The Jets’ interest in Simpson comes amidst a relatively thin quarterback class. While Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Oregon’s Dante Moore are also potential targets, Simpson’s decision to enter the draft early has elevated his profile. If Moore chooses to return to Oregon for another season, Simpson could become the second quarterback selected in April’s draft.

Parr’s mock draft highlights the Jets’ willingness to be proactive in their quarterback search. The Rams, with veteran Matthew Stafford still at the helm, aren’t in immediate need of a quarterback, making them a logical trade partner for a team like the Jets eager to move up and secure their future signal-caller. The proposed trade package – a jump from No. 33 to No. 28, plus two fourth-round picks – reflects the value the Jets place on landing Simpson.

The potential acquisition of Simpson wouldn’t preclude the Jets from continuing to bolster their roster through the draft. With two additional first-round picks, they could address needs on both sides of the ball, adding impact players to a rebuilding defense and providing Simpson with the support he needs to succeed. The scenario outlined by Parr presents a “dream scenario” for the Jets, allowing them to address both their quarterback and defensive needs in a single draft.

Mougey has publicly stated the team will “exhaust every option” in their search for a quarterback, signaling a commitment to finding a long-term solution at the position. Whether that solution is Simpson, Mendoza, Moore, or another prospect remains to be seen, but the Jets appear prepared to be aggressive in pursuing the player they believe can lead them to contention.

The Jets’ willingness to trade up for Simpson underscores the importance of the quarterback position and the team’s confidence in their ability to evaluate talent. The upcoming draft represents a critical opportunity for the Jets to lay the foundation for future success, and Simpson has positioned himself as a key piece of that puzzle.