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Will the New York Jets Tank in 2026? NFL Expert Weighs In

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Mar 24, 2026 6:25 PM ET

The New York Jets have become a focal point in discussions about potential rebuilding strategies entering the 2026 season. Questions have surfaced about whether the franchise could take a step back in the short term to position itself for long-term success.

Recent analysis suggests that the idea of tanking is tied largely to the quarterback situation. If the Jets fail to secure a reliable long-term starter, the team could find itself in a position where competing immediately becomes difficult, increasing the appeal of focusing on future draft positioning.

Nov 30, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) practices before the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

One key factor driving this conversation is the projected strength of the 2027 draft class. With expectations that it could feature multiple franchise-level quarterbacks, some teams may be tempted to prioritize long-term planning over short-term results.

At the same time, the Jets’ current roster moves suggest a more complex approach. The team has made efforts to improve in free agency and address key needs, indicating a desire to remain competitive rather than fully commit to a rebuild.

NFL Expert Reacts to New York Jets’ Campaign for 2026 Season

Nov 9, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) carries the ball during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

New York is projected to take a specific approach during its campaign for the 2026 season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Kristopher Knox for Bleacher Report.

Though New York added players like cornerback Nahshon Wright, guard Dylan Parham, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and kicker Cade York, it still has one of the more underwhelming rosters in the league. Their trade for Geno Smith isn’t a long-term quarterback play either; he’ll be a pure placeholder, barring a massive surprise.

The Jets will almost certainly go through the motions in 2026 while evaluating young talent and preparing to make a run at a quarterback in the 2027 draft—which may involve packaging those three first-rounders for a move to the very top.

The big question in New York is whether head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey will be picking the next quarterback after two seasons of intentional futility.

There is also internal pressure that complicates any tanking scenario. Coaching staff and front office leadership face job security concerns, making it unlikely they would intentionally sacrifice a season given the risks involved.

Ultimately, the Jets appear to be navigating a middle ground between competing now and preparing for the future. Whether that approach leads to a playoff push or a transition year will depend largely on how the quarterback position develops throughout the season.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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