New York Jets Brian Costello The five young Jets who could be primed for a 2026 breakout By Brian Costello Published July 8, 2026, 6:17 p.m. ET Jets defensive end Jowon Briggs (91) walks off the field at the end of the fourth quarter of the Jets and New England Patriots game in East Rutherford, NJ. Bill Kostroun/New York Post The Jets will be on the practice field in three weeks with what they feel is an improved roster and high hopes to improve in Aaron Glenn’s second year as head coach.
A major part of the roster overhaul overseen by Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey has been bringing in veterans to provide more leadership and give the team players with a track record. Players like Demario Davis, Geno Smith and Minkah Fitzpatrick will have major roles for the 2026 Jets, and the team may go as they go, especially Smith.
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But they also will need some of their younger players to take a leap this year if they are going to make a jump in the standings and be in contention in December.
Here are five players who are potential breakout players entering 2026. These are all younger players who have shown potential but appear ready to reach the next level.
