Should the Jets Take a Chance on Anthony Richardson Before the 2026 NFL Season?
As the New York Jets gear up for the offseason, GM Darren Mougey faces the daunting task of navigating the free agency market. The Jets are in dire need of a defensive overhaul after trading away stars like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. Offensively, the team is equally in need of fresh talent, lacking the playmakers necessary to compete.
The 2026 NFL Draft doesn’t seem to offer a clear solution at quarterback for the Jets. With Indiana's Fernando Mendoza likely headed to the Raiders as the top pick, Mougey and his team must explore other avenues to fill the quarterback void.
Enter Anthony Richardson, a former 2023 first-round pick who might be seeking a change of scenery. Could he be the answer for the Jets?
Richardson's journey began at Florida, where he was a polarizing figure due to limited college experience. Despite just one full season as a starter, his athletic prowess was undeniable.
A 40.5-inch vertical and a 4.43 40-yard dash at the 2023 NFL Combine caught the Colts' attention, leading to his selection as the No. 4 pick. The hope was for him to evolve into a top-tier NFL quarterback.
However, Richardson's time with the Colts has been a rollercoaster. While he’s shown potential, injuries and inconsistency have hindered his progress, leading to Daniel Jones taking over as the Colts' starter in 2025.
Now, the Jets must decide if Richardson is worth the gamble. The recent hiring of Frank Reich as the offensive coordinator could be a promising development. Reich’s history with Carson Wentz, another talented but inconsistent quarterback, might bode well for Richardson.
Taking a chance on Richardson could be a win-win for the Jets. If he reaches his potential, he could be the franchise quarterback they’ve been searching for.
If not, Mougey still has the 2027 draft to find the team's future leader. The decision is pivotal, but the potential reward could be game-changing for the Jets.