The New York Jets find themselves in familiar territory this offseason: in search of a quarterback. After missing out on Justin Fields and falling short of landing the top pick - which would’ve put them in position to draft a prospect like Fernando Mendoza - the options on the table are narrowing.
The Jets could look to the draft, where several intriguing but unproven arms are expected to go early. They could also dip into free agency, with names like Daniel Jones and Malik Willis potentially available. But perhaps the most intriguing - and complicated - route is the trade market.
One name that’s been floated in league circles is Kyler Murray. Another, more surprising possibility?
Tua Tagovailoa. But don’t count on the Jets making a move for the Dolphins' quarterback - and for good reason.
Familiarity Breeds… Hesitation?
Tua is no stranger to the Jets. As a divisional rival, they’ve seen him up close - both the flashes of brilliance and the stretches of inconsistency.
That kind of familiarity can be a double-edged sword. While it gives the Jets a detailed scouting report, it also means they know exactly what they’d be getting - and that may not be enough.
Sure, in Frank Reich’s new offensive system, Tagovailoa could theoretically be a fit. Reich’s scheme leans on timing, rhythm, and accuracy - all areas where Tua has shown flashes. But even with that potential, the Jets have every reason to be cautious.
This isn’t just about scheme fit or cap space (though the Jets do have the financial flexibility to absorb a contract like Tua’s $212 million deal). It’s about upside. And when you’re a team still trying to climb out of a years-long quarterback carousel, you don’t take big swings on players you already know have a limited ceiling.
The Risk of Trading Within the Division
Let’s not overlook the added layer here: trading for a quarterback from a division rival. That’s always a tricky proposition, no matter the cost. Even if the Dolphins were willing to deal Tua, helping them offload a massive contract while giving them draft capital in return is not the kind of move that typically ends well for the team on the buying end - especially when that team is still trying to find its identity.
There’s also the reality that Tagovailoa, while a capable starter, hasn’t consistently shown the ability to elevate a roster. He’s a bridge quarterback - someone who can keep a team competitive but isn’t likely to carry them deep into January. With the Jets' current roster still in flux, adding a quarterback with a known ceiling doesn’t move the needle much.
Free Agency? Still a Stretch
Even if Tagovailoa were to hit free agency - and that’s a big “if” - the idea of the Jets signing him on a veteran minimum deal would still raise eyebrows. The fit just doesn’t make much sense for either side.
For the Jets, it would feel like settling. For Tua, it would be a steep drop from a $212 million valuation to a prove-it deal on a team still trying to find its footing.
Where the Jets Go From Here
The Jets have to find their quarterback - that much is clear. But they also need to find the right quarterback.
And while Tua Tagovailoa has had his moments in Miami, he’s not the kind of long-term answer the Jets need. Whether it’s a draft pick with upside, a trade for a more dynamic talent like Kyler Murray, or a creative free-agent signing, the Jets need to aim higher.
This offseason is a pivotal one for the franchise. With a new offensive coordinator in place and a defense that can still keep them in games, finding the right quarterback could be the difference between another lost season and a legitimate step forward. Just don’t expect that quarterback to be wearing aqua and orange right now.