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New York Jets GM Mougey is One Bright Spot for the Team in a Spiraling Season
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- New York Jets GM Mougey is One Bright Spot for the Team in a Spiraling Season
In a season where hardly anything has gone right for the New York Jets, there's one bright spot: the judgment of general manager Darren Mougey.
The 41-year-old Mougey has worked in the NFL for 12 seasons as a player and executive. While his playing days aren't anything special, he contributed to the Denver Broncos Super Bowl 50 championship, four AFC West titles, and two AFC Championships while serving as the top assistant to Broncos general manager George Paton before his promotion to New York.
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He was hired in January 2025 around the same time as Jets head coach Aaron Glenn. Together, they were supposed to usher in a new era for the same old Jets.
So far, that hasn't happened on the playing field. But Mougey's decisions on the 15 players he's drafted and free agent signings are largely an "A" grade – and with three No. 1 picks next year – he's laid down a solid foundation for whomever coaches the Jets in 2027.
In 2025, Mougey brought aboard such solid performers as right tackle Armand Membou, tight end Mason Taylor, and cornerback Azareye'h Thomas. He also drafted special teams stalwarts and occasional fill-ins such as defensive back Malachi Moore and linebacker Francisco Mauigoa.
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The 2026 draft choices are equally impressive. Edge David Bailey was the No. 2 overall selection in the draft and has lived up to that lofty status, delivering 5.5 sacks and numerous pressures. He was an NFL Rookie of the Week award-winner for his play against the Cleveland Browns.
At No. 16, Mougey surprised pundits by choosing tight end Kenyon Sadiq out of Oregon. Sadiq was the NFL Rookie of the Week against the Detroit Lions, and while he has been mostly quiet in other games, he has flashed enough potential to excite the Jets.
The third rookie taken in the first round of the 2026 draft by the Jets is wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. He's another Jet who won the NFL Rookie of the Week award, and had back-to-back 100+ yards receiving games this year.
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The Jets also snagged defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. in the fourth round, and he has opened some eyes with his play in the middle of the line. And although quarterback Cade Klubnik has not played and cornerback D'Angelo Ponds has hardly seen the field, the Jets remain intrigued by their potential.
There's also the free agents Mougey has signed. Dylan Parham, Kingsley Enagbare, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Demario Davis have all had their moments.
Given those home runs, it's safe to assume that Mougey can put the three No. 1 picks in 2027 to good use, particularly as the Jets look for their elusive franchise quarterback. Mougey may have taken a backseat to Aaron Glenn when they were both brought on board, but his success in his position so far augurs better days ahead for the Jets.
This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
