The NFL Draft is a year-round event for many fans, and even years out, the speculation never truly sleeps. PFF, known for its deep analytical dives, has just dropped an intriguing 2026 NFL Mock Draft, sending ripples through the fan bases of some of the league’s most talked-about franchises. This early look offers a fascinating glimpse into potential future power shifts, with two blockbuster picks standing out: the New York Jets taking a potential franchise quarterback with the first overall pick, and the Dallas Cowboys shoring up their secondary with an elite talent.
Jets Chart a New Course with Ty Simpson at No. 1
The perennial search for a franchise quarterback in New York is a narrative as old as time, and PFF’s 2026 mock draft suggests a dramatic turning point. With the first overall selection, the New York Jets are projected to take quarterback Ty Simpson. This isn’t just any pick; it’s a declaration of intent, a fresh start for a team often mired in quarterback uncertainty.
Simpson, a name already buzzing in scouting circles, represents the kind of dual-threat talent that has revolutionized the modern NFL. His arm strength, mobility, and decision-making under pressure are traits that project exceptionally well to the professional level. For the Jets, this pick signals a commitment to building around a young signal-caller with sky-high potential, hoping to finally anchor their offense for the long haul. “Landing a top-tier quarterback prospect like Ty Simpson at number one isn’t just about talent; it’s about signaling a complete organizational reset,” shared one long-time scout, highlighting the profound impact such a pick can have on a team’s trajectory.
The weight of the first overall pick is immense, particularly for a quarterback in the New York market. However, if Simpson lives up to his early billing, he could be the player who finally brings sustained success and stability to the Jets’ most scrutinized position, potentially ushering in a new era for the franchise.
Cowboys Reinforce Defense with Caleb Downs at No. 12
Meanwhile, down in Texas, the Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to high draft picks, and PFF’s mock has them making a significant defensive splash at No. 12 overall, selecting safety Caleb Downs. For a team that consistently aims to contend, bolstering the defensive backfield with an impact player like Downs makes perfect sense.
Downs is widely regarded as one of the premier defensive talents in his class, a versatile safety who can cover ground, make plays on the ball, and contribute significantly in run support. His instincts and tackling prowess are precisely what a defense needs to elevate itself from good to truly great. The Cowboys, known for their aggressive defensive philosophy, could see Downs as a cornerstone for years to come, providing both leadership and elite playmaking from the backend. Pairing him with existing talent could create a formidable secondary that makes opposing offenses think twice before challenging them through the air.
This pick illustrates a strategic move by Dallas to invest in a premium defensive position with a player who brings immediate starting potential and long-term upside. Downs’ ability to patrol the deep middle or come down into the box offers defensive coordinators incredible flexibility, allowing for more aggressive schemes and better containment of explosive plays.
While mock drafts are speculative by nature, PFF’s early 2026 projections ignite exciting conversations about the future landscape of the NFL. From the Jets’ potential franchise-altering quarterback grab to the Cowboys’ move to solidify their defense, these picks offer a tantalizing preview of the talent that could soon grace professional football fields. The journey to the actual draft is long and full of twists, but these early insights certainly give fans plenty to discuss and dream about.
