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The 2026 NFL Draft offers a chance for several AFC teams to reshape their rosters through strategic picks and trades.NYC Today
Several AFC teams, including the Chiefs, Jets, and Dolphins, have multiple first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft and must maximize those selections to build contending rosters. The Chiefs are looking to extend their dynasty with Patrick Mahomes, while the Jets and Dolphins are in full rebuild mode after disappointing 2025 seasons.
Why it matters
The 2026 draft is a crucial opportunity for these teams to acquire top talent and set themselves up for future success. For the Chiefs, hitting on their picks could give their dynasty new life, while the Jets and Dolphins need to find foundational pieces to turn their franchises around.
The details
The Chiefs have two first-round picks, including the Rams’ 29th overall selection, and need to reload around Patrick Mahomes after a down 2025 season. The Jets have the 2nd and 16th overall picks after trading away stars Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner, while the Dolphins have 11 total picks including two in the first round as they rebuild around new QB Malik Willis.
The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off on April 23.The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL and LCL in Week 15 of the 2025 season.
The players
Patrick Mahomes
The Chiefs’ three-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback who is looking to lead the team back to contention after an injury-plagued 2025 season.
Quinnen Williams
The All-Pro defensive tackle traded by the Jets to the Cowboys at the 2025 trade deadline.
Sauce Gardner
The All-Pro cornerback traded by the Jets to the Colts at the 2025 trade deadline.
Malik Willis
The Dolphins’ new starting quarterback, signed to a three-year, $67.5 million deal as the team rebuilds.
Jon-Eric Sullivan
The Dolphins’ new general manager, hired from the Packers to oversee the team’s rebuild.
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What they’re saying
“Hitting on these picks could give Mahomes and the Chiefs’ dynasty years new life. Whiffing on these picks, given their salary cap situation, could create a Super Bowl dry spell.”
— Garrett Podell, Author
“If the Jets can acquire two cornerstone players in the opening round while netting, at minimum, two more serviceable starters in the second round, there could be a reason for hope for Gang Green.”
— Garrett Podell, Author
What’s next
The Chiefs will be closely monitoring Patrick Mahomes’ recovery from his 2025 knee injury as they prepare for the draft. The Jets and Dolphins will be scouting extensively to find the right pieces to build around their new quarterbacks.
The takeaway
The 2026 NFL Draft represents a crucial opportunity for several AFC teams to set themselves up for future success. The Chiefs, Jets, and Dolphins in particular must maximize their multiple first-round picks to acquire top talent and build contending rosters.