The New York Jets are eyeing a reunion under center-and it involves a name fans already know well.
According to reports, the Jets are interested in bringing back veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor for the 2026 season. Taylor, who turns 37 in August, is set to hit the free agent market this offseason, but New York is reportedly hoping to retain him in a similar role to the one he filled last year: experienced backup and steady hand when called upon.
Taylor started four games for the Jets during the 2025 season, stepping in after Justin Fields was benched following a loss to the Patriots. While the team’s overall record didn’t improve dramatically, Taylor brought poise and professionalism to the offense. He led the Jets to one of their three total wins-a victory over the Falcons-and nearly pulled off another against the Buccaneers, keeping the team competitive until the final drive.
In total, Taylor appeared in six games, throwing for 779 yards, five touchdowns, and five interceptions. He completed just under 60% of his passes and posted a 1-3 record as a starter. Not eye-popping numbers, but for a team that struggled to find consistency at quarterback, Taylor’s presence brought a level of stability that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Taylor’s NFL journey has been long and winding. Since entering the league in 2011, he’s suited up for seven franchises: the Ravens, Bills, Browns, Chargers, Texans, Giants, and now the Jets.
His most notable run came in Buffalo, where he was the starter from 2015 to 2017, compiling a 22-20 record and helping end the Bills’ 17-year playoff drought. Across his 15-year career, Taylor has thrown for over 13,000 yards and 73 touchdowns.
Now, the Jets find themselves at an inflection point. With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, it’s widely expected they’ll take a quarterback-an opportunity to reset the position long-term.
But even if a rookie is brought in, the team still needs a veteran presence in the room. That’s where Taylor fits perfectly.
He’s not just a placeholder. He’s a mentor, a calming influence, and a player who can step in and manage games if needed. And with a close relationship reportedly in place between Taylor and head coach Aaron Glenn, there’s a foundation already built for a return.
That said, bringing Taylor back won’t be without challenges. There’s expected to be a market for his services, and the Jets may have to pay more than they’d like to keep him in green and white. But for a team looking to develop a young quarterback while maintaining some measure of competitiveness, Taylor could be worth the investment.
The Jets’ quarterback picture is far from settled, but one thing is clear: Tyrod Taylor remains firmly on their radar. Whether he returns or heads elsewhere will be one of the more intriguing offseason storylines for a franchise still searching for answers under center.