The New York Jets’ No. 16 pick in the 2026 NFL draft remains highly intriguing.
Unlike No. 2, where the options seem quite clear, there is no clear-cut favorite, or even a consensus top three at No. 16. The Jets could go in several different directions with that pick.
One name that has been mentioned, though, as a potential target at No. 16 is Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.
However, that option may no longer be on the table. According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Sadiq is not expected to be available when the Jets come back on the clock at pick 16.
Speaking on “The Jets Collective” with Jake Asman and Brandon Tierney, Cimini revealed that, “based on the intel” he is receiving, Sadiq isn’t expected to remain on the board until No. 16.
“The window opens for him right there [at pick No. 9 overall with the Kansas City Chiefs]. I’d be very surprised if he got down to the Jets at pick No. 16,” said the longest tenured Jets beat reporter.
Over three seasons at Oregon, Sadiq broke out during the 2025 season, finishing the year with 51 receptions for 560 yards and eight touchdowns, which led all FBS tight ends.
His stock surged even further at the NFL Scouting Combine, after running the fastest 40-yard dash ever by a tight end (4.39) and nearly cracking history in several other drills, including the vertical and broad jump, which showcased his high-end athleticism.
While he operated more like a big receiver last season instead of a traditional tight end, logging more snaps in the slot (331) compared to inline (314), Sadiq could still hold his own as a blocker.
Despite being 6-foot-3 and 241 pounds, he posted a 66.3 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, which finished in the 83rd percentile among tight ends with at least 200 blocking snaps.
Currently ranked No. 17 overall on Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board, the consensus combats Cimini’s report, but ultimately, draft day is one of the most unpredictable days in all of sports.
Only time will tell where Sadiq ends up in the NFL.
