The New York Jets are in a bit of a quarterback conundrum. With Geno Smith leading the charge, the team is exploring options to bolster their QB room, but the choices are dwindling. Let's dive into four potential candidates who could shake things up in New York.
Tyrod Taylor (Free Agent)
Tyrod Taylor is no stranger to the Jets, having spent the last two seasons with them. At 36, he's a seasoned veteran with 15 years in the league.
Last season, Taylor stepped up in six games, starting four, and managed a 1-3 record. His stats included a 59.7% completion rate, 779 passing yards, five touchdowns, and five interceptions.
On the ground, he added 143 yards and a touchdown.
While Taylor's experience is invaluable, his health remains a concern. He missed the 2025 preseason due to knee surgery and was sidelined by injuries throughout the season.
Entering his 37th year, the question is whether he can still deliver on the field. If the Jets bring him back, he might best serve as a mentor or a third-string option, but don't rule out the possibility of him being the primary backup if options remain limited.
Cooper Rush (Free Agent)
At 32, Cooper Rush is another seasoned free agent who could fill the Jets' needs. Over eight NFL seasons, Rush has appeared in 42 games, with a 9-7 record as a starter. His career stats include a 61.1% completion rate, 3,766 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.
Rush had a tough stint with the Ravens last season, going 0-2 in his starts and throwing zero touchdowns against four interceptions. Despite his struggles, the scarcity of veteran QBs means Rush is still worth considering for a backup role.
Joe Milton, Dallas Cowboys (Trade)
Joe Milton is an intriguing trade option. Drafted by the Patriots in 2024, Milton hasn't had much of a chance to shine. He made his NFL debut with an impressive performance against the Bills, showcasing his potential with a 75.9% completion rate and a touchdown.
Traded to the Cowboys in 2025, Milton spent the season as a backup, appearing in four games. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 246 pounds, Milton is a physical specimen with a cannon for an arm. The Jets could snag him for a late-round pick and treat him as a developmental project.
Spencer Rattler, New Orleans Saints (Trade)
Spencer Rattler's NFL journey has been a rollercoaster. A fifth-round pick in 2024, Rattler stepped in for the injured Derek Carr and endured a rocky rookie season with the Saints, going 0-6 as a starter. Despite a tough supporting cast, he showed flashes of potential.
Rattler's sophomore season started with promise, but after a 1-7 record, he was benched in favor of Tyler Shough, who ended the season strong. With Shough set as the starter, Rattler might be on the move. At 25, he has starting experience and could benefit from a fresh start in a new environment.
As the Jets weigh their options, each of these quarterbacks brings something different to the table. Whether it's veteran leadership, untapped potential, or a fresh perspective, the decision will shape the team's future dynamics.