Jets rookies began reporting for training camp on Saturday, with veteran players scheduled to arrive Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s first team practice. The team, coming off a 3-14 season, seeks to reverse its fortunes under head coach Aaron Glenn, who is in his second year at the helm. Glenn has made significant coaching additions this offseason, bringing in Frank Reich as offensive coordinator and Brian Duker as defensive coordinator. With the added responsibility of defensive playcalling, Glenn faces pressure to deliver improved results quickly while developing young talent and strengthening the roster.
Since last making the playoffs in 2010, the Jets have struggled to find sustained success. Despite possessing three first-round picks for the 2027 NFL Draft, which some speculate could position them to draft a top quarterback prospect, the organization’s immediate priority remains winning games and building a competitive team.
One key question heading into camp is whether quarterback Geno Smith can regain the form that earned him two Pro Bowl selections and the 2022 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award with Seattle. Smith, acquired from the Las Vegas Raiders in March, has struggled with turnovers over the past two seasons, leading the NFL with 32 interceptions during that span and ranking near the bottom in quarterback rating. The Jets hope that improved protection from promising young offensive tackles Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou will help Smith perform better while providing more opportunities for explosive plays downfield.
The Jets also turn to their 2026 draft class to make an immediate impact. Defensive end David Bailey, the second overall pick, must address the team’s pass rush deficiency after the Jets finished near the bottom of the league in sacks last season. Bailey led college football with 14.5 sacks at Texas Tech, earning unanimous All-American and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year honors, though his run defense has raised some concerns. First-round selections tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. will also be closely watched. Sadiq, recovering from hernia surgery, is expected to be ready for camp but may begin the season on the physically unable to perform list. Cooper is expected to compete for playing time and add depth opposite star receiver Garrett Wilson.
Secondary personnel decisions present another key area of focus. Following an NFL-worst season without a single interception, the Jets are searching for stability in the cornerback group. Brandon Stephens is expected to hold a starting spot, with competition for the other two positions among free-agent signee Nahshon Wright, who posted a league-leading eight takeaways in 2025, second-year player Azareye’h Thomas, and rookie D’Angelo Ponds, who may settle into the nickel cornerback role.
On special teams, the Jets will hold a kicking competition between veteran Jason Sanders and newcomer Cade York. The team’s kicking position has seen turnover, with Nick Folk signing with the Atlanta Falcons. Sanders, who has converted 84.6% of his field-goal attempts over seven NFL seasons, returns after missing the entire 2025 season due to a hip injury.
Lastly, the Jets will evaluate their quarterback depth chart closely during camp. Rookie Cade Klubnik has attracted attention for his performance in offseason practices, but with limited game experience, he will need to prove he can be the team’s long-term backup option. Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook also remain contenders, though it is expected that a veteran backup might be added if Klubnik does not establish himself before the regular season.
As training camp unfolds, the Jets face multiple decisions that will shape the trajectory of their 2026 campaign and beyond.
