The New York Jets are staring down a familiar problem - they still don’t have a long-term answer at quarterback. And after a 2025 season that saw a carousel of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, and rookie Brady Cook under center, it’s clear that stopgap solutions aren’t cutting it.
Now, with five first-round picks over the next two drafts, the Jets have both the ammunition and the urgency to finally take a big swing at solving their quarterback conundrum. According to ESPN’s latest mock draft by Field Yates, that swing could come in the form of a blockbuster move up to the No. 1 overall pick - all in pursuit of Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.
Let’s break this down: In Yates’ scenario, the Jets send both of their 2025 first-rounders (currently projected at Nos. 7 and 18), plus a Day 2 pick, to the New York Giants in exchange for the top selection. That’s a hefty price tag, no doubt. But if the Jets believe Mendoza is the guy, it’s the kind of move that can change the trajectory of a franchise.
And Mendoza’s rise has certainly earned that kind of attention.
After transferring from Cal, the junior quarterback put together a standout season at Indiana. His tape shows a confident passer with sharp accuracy, a live arm, and - perhaps most importantly - real growth in the pocket. Mendoza’s improved awareness and ability to avoid sacks have elevated his game, and he’s done it in a conference that doesn’t exactly make life easy for quarterbacks.
The Jets, currently sitting 27th in the league in QBR (40.5), desperately need that kind of stability and upside at the position. Head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are still early in their tenure, but if they want to build something sustainable, it starts with finding a quarterback who can lead this team for the next decade.
Of course, trading up to No. 1 means sacrificing the chance to address other needs - and the Jets have plenty. The offensive line remains a work in progress, the pass rush could use reinforcements, and the secondary isn’t as deep as it once was. But as we’ve seen time and time again in this league, a true franchise quarterback can cover a lot of flaws - and elevate everyone around him.
If Mendoza is that kind of player, the cost of moving up might not matter. Because when you don’t have the guy, you do whatever it takes to go get him. And right now, the Jets are in position to make that kind of move.