As the 2026 NFL draft approaches, all eyes are on New York. Both the Jets and Giants have two first-round picks.

While the focus in Florham Park has been justifiably on the Jets’ second overall pick, the 16th pick could be one of the most critical in the franchise’s recent history.

Will the Jets be forced to choose between the second tier of wide receivers or blue-chip prospects at less-valued positions? Or, will a top wide receiver still be available at 16?

As things stand, the Jets are in danger of the former. The consensus top three receivers, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, and Jordyn Tyson, are all flying up draft boards and may be gone by 16.

If that’s the case, the Jets could pivot to Denzel Boston or Omar Cooper Jr. Other targets include guard Olaivavega Ioane, tight end Kenyon Sadiq, or cornerbacks Jermod McCoy and Colton Hood.

However, recent reports may create an ideal situation for the Jets.

Run on offensive tackles can create an ideal situation with the 16th overall pick

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported weeks ago that he foresaw an offensive tackle run in the first round. These reports have only gained steam as Jordan Schultz and ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler confirmed the frequent interest in offensive linemen among teams near the top of the first round.

As things stand, up to nine offensive linemen may hear their names called on Thursday night. Several new names, like Kadyn Proctor, Max Iheanachor, and Chase Bisontis have entered the first-round conversation due to their prototypical size and upside.

The rise of offensive linemen improves the Jets’ situation with the 16th overall pick for two reasons.

First, a run on the offensive line can push one of the top three wide receivers down the board. Whether it’s a concern about Jordyn Tyson’s injury or Makai Lemon’s size, teams may choose to beef up their offensive line instead.

The alternative is that a team may want to move up to land their target. Teams picking in the mid-to-late 20s may not have a shot at the prospect they covet. The Jets are well-positioned to capitalize.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler notably predicted that the top four offensive tackles will be gone by the 17th overall pick. Teams may be looking to jump the Detroit Lions at No. 17, which puts the Jets in a position to capitalize.

The Philadelphia Eagles are the team to watch

One team to watch is the Philadelphia Eagles. Sitting at No. 23, the Eagles have been one of the most active trading teams in the NFL.

Philadelphia also highly values offensive line talent, jumping ahead of the Texans in the 2019 draft to land their guy. With the departure of franchise legend Lane Johnson, the Eagles could be interested in moving up to secure their right tackle of the future.

Jets X-Factor reporter Nick Faria projected a potential trade with the Eagles in April. In return for sliding back seven spots, the Eagles would send the 68th overall pick. This would put the Jets in a sweet spot to draft Cooper, Boston, or a defensive back at No. 23, while adding a third-round pick, which they currently do not have.

With less than 5 hours to go, it’s up to general manager Darren Mougey to work the phones and make the right choice.