Jets eye top DE in Insider’s mock 🏈

The New York Jets head into the offseason with a lot of questions, and none loom larger than how they’ll use the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With several roster holes to address, this selection could shape the franchise’s direction moving forward. NFL insider Connor Hughes of SNY projects the Jets to take Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., a move many see as a catalyst for boosting their defense. 🏈🧭

Hughes notes that former first-round picks Jermaine Johnson and Will McDonald underwhelmed in 2025. Johnson finished with three sacks in 14 games, McDonald had eight in 15, and the Jets totaled just 26 sacks, the second-fewest in the NFL. Bain would provide an every-down edge presence and allow Johnson and McDonald to rotate more effectively. 💥🛡️

Bain Jr. is a highly regarded prospect, ranking as the top defensive end and No. 13 overall on Mel Kiper Jr.’s 2026 big board. Kiper lauds his power, hands, and rip move, plus his speed, bend, run-defending ability, and relentless hustle. In 2025, Bain posted 8.5 sacks, 63 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, 68 pressures, eight run stops, one interception, and one forced fumble across 15 games. 🔥💪

Adding Bain would address a clear area of need for the Jets. New York ranked 31st in scoring defense at 29.6 points per game and managed only 26 sacks on the season, underscoring their pass-rush struggles. A disruptive edge like Bain could anchor the defense and enable Johnson and McDonald to contribute more in rotation, strengthening the unit heading into 2026. 🛠️🏗️

This article originally appeared on Heavy Sports and notes the Jets’ projection to draft a top defensive end as part of Insider’s mock. The discussion highlights Bain as a potential game-changer for a defense that needs more pressure to complement its young talent. 📢🏁