For New York Jets fans, the hope is that the 2026 NFL season goes much better than the 2025 campaign.
Last season was an ugly one for Gang Green, as they found themselves near the bottom of the league with a 3-14 record, tying for the second-worst mark in the NFL.
The disappointing campaign led to significant changes across the roster as general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn continue to reshape the franchise.
The Jets have managed to generate some optimism with a solid draft class and an aggressive offseason that addressed several of the team's biggest needs.
Here are some bold predictions that could come true in 2026.
The Jets Get Some Clarity at the Quarterback Position
The Jets have spent the better part of the last few years searching for stability at quarterback, often coming up short in their search for a long-term solution.
That could finally change in 2026.
Veteran Geno Smith is expected to be the starter, and Cade Klubnik will give the organization a young quarterback to evaluate for the future. If Smith plays well, the Jets will have a legitimate, reliable bridge quarterback. If Klubnik shows flashes, then New York could finally have its signal-caller of the future.
If both underperform, the Jets could look to acquire a quarterback in the 2027 NFL draft.
Regardless of who ultimately earns the long-term job, the Jets should leave this season with far more clarity at the position than they’ve had in years.
David Bailey Wins Defensive Rookie of the Year
Year two under Aaron Glenn should bring a notable improvement on the defensive side of the ball, and a major reason why could be Jets rookie David Bailey.
Bailey was selected with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and has emerged as the Jets’ most impressive rookie throughout training camp, showing the flashes that made him so dominant at Texas Tech.
There are plenty of great defensive rookies entering the 2026 NFL season, including Caleb Downs and Arvell Reese. However, Bailey has the potential to transform the Jets' defensive line and become an impact player for years to come.
His rookie season could be the beginning of something special.
Aaron Glenn Earns Coach of the Year Consideration
After a three-win campaign, expectations for Aaron Glenn and the New York Jets are low. The Jets likely won’t be picked to do much, which could make a potential turnaround even more impressive.
If the Jets are significantly better in 2026, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Aaron Glenn receives serious Coach of the Year consideration.
The award is typically given to coaches whose teams make a significant improvement from the year before.
Last year, New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel took home the award for the second time after leading the Patriots to a 14-3 record following a 4-13 season the year before.
If the Jets go from a three-win team to playoff contention, then Coach of the Year voters will have to seriously consider Glenn for the award.
