Jets predicted to add Justin Fields replacement in first round of 2026 NFL Draft

Jets predicted to add Justin Fields replacement in first round of 2026 NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets moving on from quarterback Justin Fields over the offseason seems to be a foregone conclusion at this point. That’s why it’s the opposite of surprising that the Jets are projected to add a replacement for Fields in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

In a recent mock draft from Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo Sports, the Jets use some draft capital to move up to No. 1 overall and select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Jets add Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza in first round of 2026 NFL mock draft

The Jets have been searching for a franchise QB for what feels like forever. Maybe Mendoza could finally be that guy.

From Yahoo:

“Mendoza is an accurate thrower to all three levels who constantly goes to the right place with the ball. The offense uses plenty of RPOs, but Mendoza is an efficient operator in true dropback situations like on third down and in the red zone. He’s also a solid athlete and creator. Mendoza will bring a high floor and an underrated ceiling to New York behind a a young and talented offensive line, and pass catchers like Garrett Wilson and Mason Taylor with whom he should have some natural synergy.”

It remains to be seen if the Jets actually use their top pick in the upcoming draft on a quarterback, but it would surprise almost no one if they did. In addition to Mendoza, there will also be other options for the Jets when it comes to the quarterback position early in the draft. Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson is another intriguing prospect, as is Oregon QB Dante Moore.

The Jets could also look to add a signal-caller through free agency, as guys like Daniel Jones, Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett and Russell Wilson are projected to be available. Granted, that's not the most exciting list, but if the Jets don't love any of the college QBs this year, they could potentially add a veteran in free agency and look to add a new franchise cornerback through the draft in 2027.

Since the Jets' decision(s) early in the draft will have a trickle-down effect on the rest of the league, they will absolutely be a team to watch heading into the draft, which remains months away at this point.