The New York Jets face a critical offseason under General Manager Aaron Glenn, aiming to resolve significant challenges from last year’s campaign. One primary area of concern is the quarterback role, which Justin Fields failed to solidify, prompting the team to explore alternative options as they approach the free agency tampering period.
The Jets have been actively linked to various quarterbacks through potential trades and free agency. Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic revealed who Glenn currently views as the early frontrunner to replace Fields in the Jets’ quarterback lineup.
“The Jets will be in on the group of quarterbacks who were cut by other teams and have significant money left on their contracts, which makes them much cheaper to sign (as in, they’ll likely be signed for the minimum salary, $1.3 million),” Rosenblatt wrote. “That includes Kyler Murray, Geno Smith and, if/when he’s cut, Tua Tagovailoa.”
“Smith feels like the early favorite, and many sources around the league expect Murray to land in Minnesota, though that’s not 100 percent locked in. Malik Willis is expected to be too expensive for the Jets’ taste. I would not expect the Jets to pursue Derek Carr at this juncture either.”
Geno Smith Emerges as Leading Candidate Among Potential Quarterbacks
Geno Smith, originally a second-round pick by the Jets in 2013, struggled to secure a steady role during his four-year tenure, hindered by performance issues and injuries. Now set to be released by the Las Vegas Raiders, Smith stands out as a prime candidate for the Jets as they aim to strengthen their quarterback depth under Aaron Glenn’s leadership.
Potential Backup Quarterbacks That Could Join Jets Roster
With Justin Fields’ future uncertain and a possible release on the horizon, New York plans to pursue multiple quarterback options this offseason. Rosenblatt highlights additional signal-callers who may fill backup roles or provide competition for the starting spot.
“Keep an eye on Carson Wentz as a potential No. 2 option because of his familiarity with Frank Reich. Same for Andy Dalton, though he’s currently on the Carolina Panthers’ roster,” Rosenblatt wrote.
“ESPN suggested the Jets also have some interest in Buffalo Bills free-agent quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. The Jets plan on keeping Justin Fields for the time being since there are no bonuses coming that would require them to expedite his release. It would still be a major surprise if he stuck around.”
Securing a capable veteran quarterback is crucial for Glenn as he enters his second year running the team. A seasoned player could provide stability in the short term while allowing the Jets to develop younger talent as part of their ongoing rebuild. This approach aims to bring clarity to the quarterback position, which remains vital to the franchise’s future success.
The Jets have a lot of cap space to work with — but I wouldn’t expect Darren Mougey to go on a spending spree. They’ll be looking for bargains.
Some thoughts about the Jets and their approach ahead of free agency, plus AVT/Simpson, feeling at QB and WR, position priorities and…
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) March 8, 2026
