The New York Jets are heading into the offseason with a clear priority: securing a reliable quarterback. After a tumultuous 2025 season featuring Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, and Brady Cook, Jets fans are eager for stability under center. The team is expected to explore every avenue, from the draft to trades and free agency, in search of their next leader on the field.
One name that stands out in the free-agent market is Malik Willis, currently a backup with the Green Bay Packers. Willis completed 85% of his passes for 422 yards and five touchdowns in limited action last season. While these stats are impressive, the projected two-year, $71 million contract raises questions about whether the Jets should pursue him.
Willis is expected to command an average annual salary of $35.5 million, making him the 18th-highest paid quarterback in the league. The Jets have the cap space to make this deal, but should they take the plunge?
While Willis' potential is undeniable, there's uncertainty about whether he can maintain that level of performance over a full season, especially without the guidance of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. It's a risky move reminiscent of last year's gamble on Fields-a quarterback with athletic prowess but unproven consistency.
The Jets might be wiser to consider a seasoned veteran like Jacoby Brissett or Kirk Cousins. These players may not deliver flashy stats, but they offer the steadiness of league-average play, which the Jets desperately need.
Willis is undoubtedly an intriguing prospect and likely to attract significant interest. However, the Jets should let another team take the risk.
Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey can't afford another misstep at quarterback. If Willis doesn't pan out, it could mean the end of their tenure with the team.
In the quest for a quarterback, the Jets must weigh potential against reliability. With so much at stake, a cautious approach might be their best play.