Here’s a look at five lesser-known players on the New York Jets roster who could make a leap in 2026. If things go right, they’ll be ones to keep an eye on. And yes, if you’re into odds, you might want to check out betway for how the market views them.
1. Joe Tippmann (Center)
Here’s the thing: centers rarely grab headlines, but Tippmann already has the tools for one. The Jets drafted him in the 2nd round in 2023 out of Wisconsin. Last season he started all 17 games at centre, which says a lot about his reliability.
With the Jets investing in their offensive line, Tippmann could become the steady rock the line needs. He’s already been highlighted by Pro Football Focus as a breakout candidate among NFL centers.
What needs to go right: He must avoid time on the sideline, keep sharpening his protection, and stay in sync with his quarterback. If the blocking improves, the whole offense benefits.
2. Arian Smith (Wide Receiver)
Smith is a rookie (2025, 4th round) out of Georgia known for elite speed. He ran a 4.36 in the 40-yard dash at the combine.
The Jets have lacked a deep threat to complement Garrett Wilson, and Smith’s speed gives them that. There’s buzz that if he polishes his hands, he could carve out big plays.
What needs to go right: He must reduce drops (his drop rate in college was a red flag), earn more targets, and show consistency. If that happens he could go from unknown to a real contributor.
3. Isaiah Davis (Running Back)
Davis was a 5th-round pick in 2024 from South Dakota State. In limited rookie action he mostly played special teams, but there were flashes.
The Jets have been talking about running the ball more, and Davis brings the kind of toughness that works late in games. If he can grab a share of the carries behind Hall, he might end up being the guy fans wonder why he wasn’t used sooner. It could be his year.
What needs to go right: He’ll need more reps, better blocking up front, and fewer mistakes. If the run game opens up and he earns trust, he could surprise.
4. Azareye’h Thomas (Cornerback)
Selected in Round 3 of 2025, Thomas is a 6-2, 197-lb corner out of Florida State. In one early appearance he stepped in late vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and broke up a deep pass.
The Jets’ secondary could use more depth behind Sauce Gardner, and Thomas has size and physicality. He could move into a regular role if he shows maturity.
What needs to go right: He must improve speed/coverage risk (his 40-yard dash time was slower) and beat out competition. If he gets consistent snaps and stays healthy, big upside.
5. Malachi Moore (Safety)
A 4th-round pick in 2025, Malachi Moore comes from Alabama’s battle-tested program and brings that edge with him.
The Jets need help in the secondary beyond their stars. Moore’s background suggests he can cover and tackle well, giving them options.
What needs to go right: He must earn playing time, stay sharp in coverage, and avoid being exposed on bigger plays. If he becomes a reliable safety, he fills a big need.
Why it matters
The Jets are in a stage where growth from younger players could make a real difference. If a couple of these five take leaps, it helps the team without major free-agent splashes. That matters because roster development is getting harder every year.
Also, if you’re tracking the betting markets, players breaking out sometimes shift how a team is valued, so those kinds of sleeper names are interesting.
Final thoughts
No guarantee that anyone will become a star. But each of these five has a path. If the line blocks better, the receivers develop, the defense settles, one or more could end up being key. So here’s the thing: watch how these guys are used early 2026. Look for more snaps, better production, and trust from coaches. If you see that, you’ll know the breakout is underway.
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