It's been a whirlwind offseason for the New York Jets, and if you've been following the action in Florham Park, you know head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey have been burning the midnight oil. From signing quarterback Geno Smith to a new deal, making three first-round draft picks, and locking down running back Breece Hall with an extension, the Jets have been one of the NFL's busiest teams. But does all that hustle translate to respect in the eyes of the national media?
According to ESPN's latest way-too-early power rankings for the 2026 season, not quite yet. Despite the flurry of moves, Gang Green finds itself stuck at No. 31 on the list, just ahead of the Miami Dolphins at dead last. It's a reminder that while the roster has seen a major facelift, there's still plenty to prove on the field.
One bright spot in the analysis? The work the Jets have done to revamp their edge rush. ESPN's Rich Cimini highlighted how the team used the draft, free agency, and a trade to shore up one of their weakest positions. The headliner is No. 2 overall pick David Bailey, who steps in for Jermaine Johnson II (traded to the Titans). The Jets also added veteran edge rushers Joseph Ossai (from the Bengals) and Kingsley Enagbare (from the Packers) in March.
And it's not just the edge players getting a boost. The interior defensive line should be improved too, with the additions of David Onyemata (Saints) and T'Vondre Sweat. After a 2025 season that saw the Jets manage just 26 sacks (ranking 31st in the league), the arrow is pointing up for a unit that could be much more disruptive next season.
For Jets fans, the rankings might sting, but the pieces are in place for a turnaround. Now it's all about putting in the work and letting the results speak for themselves.
