Jets face significant challenges in 2026 playoff pursuit

The New York Jets' quest to return to the playoffs faces a difficult schedule as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. Early strength-of-schedule projections indicate they will contend with one of the toughest slates in the league, complicating their efforts to end the NFL's longest active playoff drought. Despite roster upgrades, including quarterback Geno Smith and talented new additions, the Jets must prove their worth against highly competitive teams in the AFC. Stakeholders are anticipating how this challenging schedule will affect their chances for success as the season unfolds.

• 6:42 PMYahoo Sports — Jets face brutal obstacle in pursuit to end a long playoff drought