NY Jets May Sign Two Veteran Quarterbacks, Ignoring Draft Needs

The NY Jets are thinking about signing two veteran quarterbacks, which is different from the Giants' plan to draft a young player. This could mean they wait until 2027 to pick a new QB.
By Newsroom | Sports, NFL |

The Unsettling Currents of Quarterback Speculation

Recent whispers suggest the New York Jets might be entertaining a strategy of acquiring multiple veteran quarterbacks, a move that has drawn parallels to the cautionary tale of their cross-town rivals, the New York Giants. This approach, if pursued, could involve figures like Geno Smith and Carson Wentz, with the latter reportedly holding significant favor with the Jets' new offensive coordinator, Frank Reich. A source indicated, "No one loves Wentz more than Frank," highlighting a potential personal endorsement driving the rumor.

The proposed strategy of bringing in two veteran quarterbacks, ostensibly after releasing Justin Fields, does little to address the long-term need for a foundational signal-caller. The Giants, in a seemingly more prudent maneuver, at least incorporated a drafted prospect, Jaxson Dart, who was afforded time to observe and develop before being thrust into action. This scenario, however, carries its own inherent complexities.

Jets rumor could lead to Giants-sized 2-QB mistake - 1

Future Projections and Deferred Decisions

Further muddying the waters, some industry insiders propose a more protracted approach. Reports from ESPN's Rich Cimini suggest that Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey might elect to "punt on a quarterback" in the upcoming draft, potentially delaying a significant quarterback acquisition until the 2027 NFL Draft. This strategy hinges on the perceived promise of prospects like Fernando Mendoza, who is considered by some to be the only first-round caliber quarterback available in 2026.

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Jets rumor could lead to Giants-sized 2-QB mistake - 2

Familiar Faces and Fleeting Endorsements

The rumor mill has also churned out the possibility of a reunion between the Jets and four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins. This speculation, floated by Yahoo Sports senior reporter Jori Epstein, points to a pre-existing interest between the parties from several years ago. Separately, the name Jarrett Stidham, currently a backup with the Denver Broncos, has surfaced, reportedly due to his prior connection with Darren Mougey, who was involved in bringing him to Denver. However, the influence of figures like Sean Payton and offensive coordinator Davis Webb, who allegedly favor Stidham, is questioned, with Rich Cimini of ESPN urging fans to "watch" this potential move. The underlying concern is that Stidham has shown "next to nothing" to indicate he can be a high-level starter.

Jets rumor could lead to Giants-sized 2-QB mistake - 3

The Underlying Context: A Persistent Void

For years, the New York Jets have grappled with the absence of a definitive franchise quarterback. The current flurry of speculation, encompassing veteran acquisitions and deferred draft strategies, underscores the ongoing struggle to fill this critical void. The differing narratives – from immediate veteran solutions to multi-year development plans – reflect a franchise in flux, attempting to navigate a landscape replete with uncertain outcomes and the specter of repeating past missteps.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are the NY Jets thinking about signing two veteran quarterbacks?
The NY Jets might sign veteran quarterbacks like Geno Smith and Carson Wentz. This is because their new offensive coordinator, Frank Reich, likes Wentz. This plan might mean they don't focus on drafting a young quarterback soon.
Q: How does the NY Jets' quarterback plan compare to the New York Giants?
The Giants drafted a young quarterback, Jaxson Dart, and let him learn. The Jets' plan to sign veterans might not solve their need for a main quarterback for the future. It's different from the Giants' approach.
Q: Could the NY Jets wait until 2027 to draft a quarterback?
Yes, some experts think the Jets might not pick a quarterback in the next draft. They might wait until the 2027 draft to find a top player like Fernando Mendoza, who is seen as a future star.
Q: Is Kirk Cousins a possibility for the NY Jets?
There are rumors that the Jets might be interested in Kirk Cousins again. They liked him a few years ago. This is one of the many ideas being discussed for their quarterback situation.
Q: What about Jarrett Stidham and the NY Jets?
Jarrett Stidham's name has also come up because his old boss, Darren Mougey, is with the Jets. However, some reporters think Stidham hasn't shown he can be a great starting quarterback.
Q: Why is the New York Jets' quarterback situation a big problem?
The Jets have needed a good, main quarterback for many years. All these different ideas about signing veterans or waiting for the draft show they are still trying to find the right player to lead their team.