Jets predicted to replace Justin Fields with 28-TD SEC passer in 2026

It should come as a surprise to absolutely nobody, but the New York Jets once again need a quarterback. 

The team had hoped that its quarterback problems were solved last offseason when Justin Fields was signed to a two-year deal. However, Fields was inconsistent again and ended up being benched in favor of veteran journeyman Tyrod Taylor. 

Now, the team enters another offseason in search of a franchise passer. With the No. 2 pick in the 2026 draft, the thinking was that the team would go after Oregon quarterback Dante Moore. 

However, Moore is set to return to Oregon, thus taking away the team's best option. As a result, PFSN's T.J. Randall has the team taking a passer in the second round instead. 

In Randall's recent seven-round mock, he has the Jets taking Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 32nd pick of the draft. Simpson received large offers to return to school, but will instill take advantage of a weak quarterback draft. 

Regarding Simpson and the Jets, Randall offered the following: 

With the first pick of the second round, New York (hopefully) has their quarterback of the future. Simpson’s performance backslid down the stretch, but the positive moments confidently fell under the first-round scope.

As Randall mentioned, Simpson didn't have the best ending at Alabama, but his physical tools are intriguing nonetheless. 

Simpson threw for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and just five interceptions. The quarterback led the SEC in pass attempts and completions, so he's not afraid to air it out. 

The concern is that Simpson has just one year of starting experience. However, that experience came against SEC competition in a pro-style offense. In the right system, there's reason to believe Simpson could thrive at the next level. 

The Jets have been a quarterback's nightmare in recent history, but it may not be as bad of a job as people think. The team has a young, solid offensive line and an elite wide receiver in Garrett Wilson. 

Additionally, Fields is still under contract in 2026, so the team could keep the veteran around in case Simpson struggles. 

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