The New York Jets are staring down yet another pivotal offseason, and once again, the conversation starts - and likely ends - with the quarterback position.
After a 2025 campaign that saw Justin Fields struggle to take command of the offense, it’s widely expected that the team will move on from the former first-rounder this summer. Tyrod Taylor, the veteran stopgap, is also set to hit free agency. At 36, he’s not the long-term answer - and the Jets know it.
The problem? They’re holding the No. 2 overall pick in a draft that’s light on top-tier quarterback talent.
With Fernando Mendoza likely headed to the Raiders at No. 1, the Jets find themselves in a tough spot. General manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn have their work cut out for them.
This isn’t a situation where you can just plug in a rookie and hope for the best - not with the clock ticking on a roster that’s built to win now.
That’s why the trade market is suddenly looking like the most viable - and intriguing - path forward.
One name that’s gaining traction: Kyler Murray.
On a recent episode of Jets Final Drive, SNY’s Connor J. Hughes floated the possibility of the Jets making a bold move for the Arizona Cardinals quarterback.
“The way things have changed for the Jets this offseason, it’s making me think Kyler [Murray] is going to happen,” Hughes said. “It feels like they’re going to want a splash.”
And honestly, it makes a lot of sense.
Murray was benched last season in Arizona, and the Cardinals are clearly heading in a new direction. They’ve already brought in Mike LaFleur - the former Jets offensive coordinator - as their new head coach.
That connection alone adds a layer of intrigue. If the Cardinals are ready to hit the reset button, moving on from Murray could be part of that process.
For the Jets, this isn’t about chasing headlines. It’s about finding a quarterback who can elevate the offense now. Free agency isn’t offering much in the way of upside, and with the top QB in the draft likely off the board, the Jets are in danger of spinning their wheels again unless they make a move.
Say what you want about Murray - yes, he’s had his ups and downs - but he’s a dynamic talent with Pro Bowl credentials and playoff experience. He’s still just 28.
And in the right system, with the right supporting cast, he can be a game-changer. The Jets have the pieces: a strong defense, emerging weapons on offense, and a front office that’s clearly in win-now mode.
Bringing in Murray could fast-track their return to relevance. It would be a swing - but one worth taking.
The Jets can’t afford another season of uncertainty under center. If they want to compete in a stacked AFC, they need a quarterback who can go toe-to-toe with the best. Kyler Murray might just be that guy.