2026 NFL Draft: 9 Teams Earn A Grades, Jets' Class Raises Concerns

The 2026 NFL Draft is officially in the books, and analysts have wasted no time dishing out grades for each team’s selections. While snap judgments often focus on the drafting process, the true measure of success will come from how these rookies perform on the field under their new coaching staffs and schemes.

As players transition from college to the professional ranks, their ability to adapt will heavily influence their ultimate grades. After evaluating the 2026 Draft, we awarded nine teams an A grade for their classes:

• Cleveland Browns: A+
• New York Giants: A+
• Las Vegas Raiders: A
• New York Jets: A
• Carolina Panthers: A
• Dallas Cowboys: A
• Philadelphia Eagles: A
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A
• Kansas City Chiefs: A-

Could the Jets’ 2026 Draft Class Become an F?

The New York Jets entered the 2026 NFL Draft with the second-overall pick after the Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza. Their first major decision came down to two prospects: Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey and Ohio State hybrid defender Arvell Reese. While Reese was widely regarded as the more talented prospect, the Jets chose Bailey, citing his experience as an edge rusher as a safer selection. Reese, who primarily played in an off-ball role at Ohio State, would need time to adjust to life on the edge.

The Jets’ strategy became clearer with their next two selections. Many analysts expected New York to add another receiver to support free agent quarterback Geno Smith, given their need at the position. General manager Darren Mougey addressed this by drafting Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the 16th overall pick. This move left some fans and analysts puzzled, particularly after the team selected LSU’s Mason Taylor at tight end in the second round of the 2025 Draft.

"The Jets’ draft class has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising their aggressive approach and others questioning their long-term vision."