TL;DR
- New York Jets likely to draft a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Nate Tice and Charles McDonald's mock draft selects Fernando Mendoza of Indiana.
- Mendoza shows precise throwing, athleticism, and playmaking skills.
- Other QB options include Ty Simpson, Dante Moore, and free agents.
The New York Jets departure of quarterback Justin Fields during the offseason appears to be a certainty now. Consequently, it's not at all surprising that the Jets are anticipated to select a successor for Fields in the initial round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
According to a recent mock draft by Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo Sports, the Jets utilized some draft assets to ascend to the top pick and choose Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
The Jets have selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with their initial pick in the 2026 NFL mock draft.
The Jets have been searching for a franchise QB for what feels like forever. Maybe Mendoza could finally be that guy.
From Yahoo:
Mendoza demonstrates precise throwing ability across all three levels, consistently directing the ball effectively. While the offense frequently employs RPOs, Mendoza excels in traditional dropback scenarios, particularly on third downs and within the red zone. Furthermore, he possesses good athleticism and playmaking skills. Mendoza is expected to provide a reliable baseline performance with an underestimated potential for New York, joining a youthful and skilled offensive line, along with pass-catching talents such as Garrett Wilson and Mason Taylor, with whom he ought to exhibit some inherent connection.”
It's uncertain whether the Jets will select a quarterback with their first choice in the approaching draft, but it wouldn't shock many if they opted to do so. Beyond Mendoza, the Jets will have alternative choices for the quarterback role early in the draft. Ty Simpson, a quarterback from Alabama, presents another compelling possibility, as does Dante Moore, the QB from Oregon.
The Jets might also consider acquiring a quarterback via free agency, with individuals such as Daniel Jones, Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Russell Wilson anticipated to be on the market. While this isn't the most thrilling selection, if the Jets aren't impressed with any of the available college quarterbacks this year, they might opt to bring in an experienced player through free agency and then focus on selecting a new franchise cornerback during the 2027 draft.
The Jets' early draft selections are anticipated to influence other teams throughout the league, making them a focal point of attention as the draft approaches, which is still several months off.