New York Jets

Adonai Mitchell

WR

Mitchell was, specifically, Smith's most-targeted pass-catcher during Tuesday's practice, in which the Jets ran drills to simulate high-pressure situations such as third-and-long. Rosenblatt also notes that Mitchell and Smith connected frequently during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills in May. New York acquired Mitchell via trade with the Colts last November, and across eight games with the team he secured 25 of 59 targets for 312 yards and two scores, including an 8-102-1 performance against the Falcons in Week 13. With the Jets' offense seemingly in position to take a step forward with Smith under center in 2026, Mitchell will have an opportunity to capitalize on a starting role alongside Garrett Wilson and rookie first-round pick Omar Cooper.

Jason Sanders

PK

Sanders took just one day to find a new team after the Giants released him on Tuesday. He held down the placekicking job in Miami from 2018 to 2024, but after missing all of last season with a hip injury, Sanders may have to compete with Cade York (groin) for the Jets' placekicker job. York has been missing OTA practices due to a groin injury, so the Jets might even consider bringing in another kicker at some point.

Azareye'h Thomas

CB

The cornerback's 2025 season ended in December when he suffered the shoulder injury. A third-round pick a year ago, Thomas played in 12 games and on 311 defensive snaps as a rookie, recording seven pass breakups. He should be in the mix for a role again as 2026 approaches.

Bailey Zappe

QB

Zappe has nine career regular-season starts, giving him more experience than fourth-round pick Cade Klubnik and second-year pro Brady Cook. With Geno Smith locked in as the team's starter, Zappe, Klubnik and Cook are competing in an "open competition" for the backup role, per Cimini.

Kobe King

LB

King wasn't claimed by another team after the Jets waived him Monday, so now he'll have to spend the entire 2026 campaign on IR unless he negotiates an injury settlement with the team. For now, his absence could free up more reps at linebacker for rookie undrafted free agents Jaden Keller and Chase Wilson.