The New York Jets 2026 rookie minicamp officially opened this weekend at the Atlantic Health Training Center, featuring first-round picks David Bailey (Edge), Kenyon Sadiq (TE), and Omar Cooper Jr. (WR). The camp focuses on acclimating the 2026 draft class and undrafted free agents to Frank Reich’s new offensive system and Aaron Glenn’s defensive schemes.
What happened
The Jets hosted their 2026 rookie minicamp at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center with a 56-man working roster — eight draft picks, 12 undrafted free agents, five first-year players already under contract, and 31 tryout invites. Every drafted player has now signed his rookie deal, including first-rounders David Bailey, Kenyon Sadiq, and Omar Cooper Jr.
Bailey, the No. 2 overall pick, took the field a half-day behind first-round tight end Kenyon Sadiq, who signed his contract Thursday night. By the end of the first full session, coaches were already noting his edge bend, get-off, and pad level — three of the traits that pushed him to the top of the board in April.
Why it matters
The Jets made three first-round picks for only the third time in franchise history. That is not a coincidence — it is a structural reset. After 15 consecutive non-playoff seasons, the front office attacked three needs simultaneously: a true edge bender opposite Jermaine Johnson, a seam-stretching tight end to open the middle of the field for Garrett Wilson, and a perimeter receiver with contested-catch traits.
The 2026 class added the second-most projected wins-above-average of any draft class in the league, according to PFF. That positions the Jets as a 2026 wildcard candidate even before factoring in returning veterans.
2026 Jets Draft Class — Full List
| Player | Position | Draft Slot | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Bailey | EDGE | No. 2 Overall | Signed (5/8) |
| Kenyon Sadiq | TE | No. 16 Overall | Signed (5/7) |
| Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | No. 30 Overall | Participating |
| D’Angelo Ponds | CB | No. 50 Overall | Signed (5/8) |
| Darrell Jackson Jr. | DT | No. 103 (R4) | Participating |
| Cade_Klubnik | QB | No. 110 (R4) | Participating |
| Anez Cooper | G | No. 188 (R6) | Signed (5/8) |
| VJ Payne | DB | No. 228 (R7) | Participating |
What changes next
Bailey enters DROY conversations immediately. Omar Cooper Jr. has a clear path to WR2 reps opposite Garrett Wilson. Klubnik begins his apprenticeship under OC Frank Reich and QB coach Bill Musgrave, behind Geno Smith — the Jets have signaled they will “push the envelope” with him during installation. OTAs open later this month and will be the first real test of veteran-rookie integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did the Jets pick in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Jets selected eight players: David Bailey (EDGE, 1.02), Kenyon Sadiq (TE, 1.16), Omar Cooper Jr. (WR, 1.30), D’Angelo Ponds (CB, R2), Darrell Jackson Jr. (DT, R3), Cade Klubnik (QB, R4), Anez Cooper (G, R6), and VJ Payne (DB, R7).
How did the Jets get three first-round picks in 2026?
The Jets entered the draft with two first-round picks and traded back into Round 1 to take Omar Cooper Jr. at No. 30. It is only the third time in franchise history the team has used three or more first-round selections in a single draft.
What grade did the Jets’ 2026 draft class receive?
PFF graded the class A-, ranking the Jets second in the NFL in projected wins above average added.
Who is the Jets’ starting QB after the 2026 draft?
Geno Smith remains the starter. Cade Klubnik joins as a developmental rookie behind Smith and is expected to compete for the QB2 role.
When is the Jets’ rookie minicamp 2026?
Rookie minicamp opened May 8, 2026, at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center.