The New York Jets have several problems on their roster, despite their glaringly obvious need for a new quarterback.
It's not a situation that a rookie quarterback can really succeed in, which is why the most recent mock draft from Pro Football Focus's Trevor Sikkema has New York passing on a quarterback and adding an elite weapon to their offense.
Before you land the crown jewel, you have to build the foundation, and that's exactly what the Jets do with the selection of USC wide receiver Makai Lemon.
Jets select USC wide receiver Makai Lemon in 2026 mock draft
"Even if Jordyn Tyson were still on the board, if the Jets were the team taking the first wide receiver in this draft, I bet it would be Lemon," wrote Sikkema.
"What Lemon may lack in overall size and straight-line athleticism, he more than makes up for with quickness, football IQ and competitiveness in every area — contested catches, blocking, yards after the catch and more. He has the mentality of a receiver Aaron Glenn would pound the table for to complement Garrett Wilson."
The Jets' receiving core has been lacking as of late, even after the additions of John Metchie and Adonai Mitchell.
Garrett Wilson is a bona fide No. 1 option, that's for sure, but the revolving door of Josh Reynolds, Allen Lazard, and the aforementioned youngsters isn't consistent enough to foster a positive environment for a rookie quarterback.
Landing Lemon overhauls the room and provides an elite one-two punch with Wilson to create a better landing spot for a young trigger man.
More Jets news:
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- Aaron Glenn provides development update on undrafted rookie quarterback
- Jets' breakout defensive lineman attributes success to veteran Harrison Phillips
- Jets predicted to bolster offense with explosive addition in 2026 mock draft
- Jets get positive update on position of need ahead of 2026 draft
- Aaron Glenn responds to Jets winning 'meaningless' games: 'winning is contagious'