Episode 2,736 - What Do the Data & Analytics Say About The Jets 2026 Draft Class (Part 1)? w/Jim Cobern

The New York Jets' 2026 draft class, analyzed through data and analytics by Jim Cobern of All Pro Football Data, reveals a strategic mix of high-ceiling athletes and calculated positional value decisions. The Jets' selection of David Bailey at No. 2 overall—chosen over Arville Reese—was validated by Cobern, who rated Bailey's expected value at a 96th percentile, with strong comps to DeMarcus Ware and TJ Watt. Bailey’s athleticism and production metrics suggest an immediate impact pass rusher, though not a generational talent. At No. 16, the Jets took tight end Kenyan Sadiq, whose elite combine athleticism (100th percentile in explosiveness and speed) masks underwhelming college production. Cobern notes Sadiq’s ideal fit is a move tight end like Aaron Hernandez or Vernon Davis, but success hinges on an offensive coordinator who can exploit his mismatch potential. The third-round pick, wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., was graded poorly in raw data (D grade) due to modest production, but context matters: drafted in the late first round, his high speed (88th percentile) and touchdown efficiency (88th percentile) suggest a valuable role as a reliable red-zone weapon. Cobern compares him to Alvin Harper, a key number-two receiver in Dallas. Finally, cornerback D'Angelo Pons—selected at No. 50—earned an A grade despite being undersized, with athletic traits nearly identical to current Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and a strong comparison to Antoine Winfield.