The New York Jets are back in quarterback purgatory-again. After the $40 million gamble on Justin Fields went sideways, the team is looking to reset under new head coach Aaron Glenn. And with the top quarterback prospect, Fernando Mendoza, likely off the board thanks to the Raiders holding the No. 1 overall pick, the Jets are now eyeing the veteran trade market.
According to an AFC executive, the Jets are expected to pursue a seasoned signal-caller, with three names surfacing as potential targets: Geno Smith, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kyler Murray. All three come with different price tags, different ceilings, and very different implications for a Jets team that needs to show progress in 2026-but isn’t exactly one quarterback away from contending.
Let’s break it down.
Geno Smith: The Familiar Face with the Friendly Price Tag
Of the three, Geno Smith might be the most straightforward option. He’s 35, he’s been around, and he wouldn’t cost the Jets a fortune.
His 2026 cap hit sits at a manageable $18.5 million-roughly half of what Kyler Murray would command. And if you're the Jets, trying to plug a hole without mortgaging the future, that's a number you can live with.
Smith’s current stint with the Raiders could end up being a short one if Vegas lands Mendoza. That opens the door for the Jets to swoop in and reunite with their former second-round pick. While Smith isn’t going to light up the stat sheet or change the trajectory of the franchise, he’s a steady presence who could help Glenn stabilize the offense in his first season at the helm.
Tua Tagovailoa: The In-Division Wild Card
Tua is the most intriguing-and most complicated-of the three. Trading within the division is always tricky, especially when it involves a quarterback. But if the Dolphins are ready to pivot and the Jets are willing to absorb his contract, there’s a scenario where this could work.
The challenge? Miami would have to be incentivized to deal him to a division rival.
That likely means the Jets would need to sweeten the pot-perhaps by taking on Tua’s deal and picking up a draft pick in return. It’s a move that would raise eyebrows, but if the Jets see Tagovailoa as a bridge quarterback who can keep them competitive while they build out the rest of the roster, it’s not entirely off the table.
Still, the fit is questionable. Tua’s strengths-timing, rhythm, and quick reads-require a well-oiled system and strong offensive line play. The Jets don’t exactly check those boxes right now.
Kyler Murray: The High-Ceiling, High-Cost Option
Then there’s Kyler Murray, the most talented of the trio-and the most expensive. With a $37 million price tag and a trade cost that could include premium picks, Murray represents a big swing. But if the Jets want to make noise in 2026, he might offer their best shot.
Murray’s dual-threat ability remains a headache for defenses, and there’s still belief around the league that he can be a top-tier quarterback in the right environment. The question is whether the Jets can provide that environment.
Their offensive line needs work, and their playmakers haven’t consistently produced. Still, if Glenn and the front office believe Murray can elevate the offense, this could be the bold move that defines their tenure.
Where the Jets Stand
What’s clear is that the Jets aren’t expected to roll the dice on a rookie in 2026. According to the AFC executive, Glenn is under pressure to win now, and that means going with a proven veteran rather than waiting on a young quarterback to develop.
It’s not an ideal situation-none of these options are perfect fits-but it’s the reality for a team that’s trying to climb out of the cellar without a clear long-term answer under center. Whether it’s Smith, Tagovailoa, or Murray, the Jets are likely to land a veteran quarterback this offseason. The only question is which one they believe can get them through 2026 in one piece-and maybe even surprise a few people along the way.