New York Jets opponents 2026: Who’s on the schedule, how easy or hard will their schedule be

The Aaron Glenn Era in New York was not the resounding success Jets fans were hoping for.

New York lost by just two points in their season opener, 32-30 to the Pittsburgh Steelers, giving Jets fans some hope that perhaps the team would round into form. Instead, that was the start to a seven-game losing streak to begin the season. Justin Fields was replaced as the starting quarterback early in the year, and the New York defense — despite Glenn’s influence and background — was historically bad, particularly against the pass.

In fact, as of the time of publication the Jets had yet to intercept a pass this season. While they have the rest of their season finale against the Buffalo Bills to generate an INT, they could make some rather dubious history if they cannot intercept a pass in Week 18.

While their season has yet to end — New York will finish 3-14 with a loss to Buffalo or 4-13 if they pull out a win — they do know their opponents for next season.

With the Jets finishing in last place in the AFC East, they gain the advantage of a last-place schedule. That means games against the Cleveland Browns, the Tennessee Titans, and the Arizona Cardinals next year.

The Jets, along with the rest of the AFC East, also have games against the NFC North as well as the AFC West. That means, depending on when the game is scheduled, the Jets could face Patrick Mahomes if he is back from his knee injury by that time.

The toughest part of this schedule might just be what the Jets face in the division, with Josh Allen and the Bills as well as the ascending Drake Maye and the Patriots on the schedule two times each.