The New York Jets are heading into this offseason with a rare advantage: two first-round picks and a clear need at quarterback. That combination opens up a variety of options-drafting a young signal-caller, trading back to accumulate more assets, or even swinging for a proven veteran. And yes, that includes exploring a deal for someone like Kyler Murray.
There’s been some buzz around the idea of the Jets sending their No. 16 overall pick to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for Murray. It’s a bold move, no doubt. But it’s not as far-fetched as it might seem at first glance.
Let’s break it down.
Why Kyler Murray?
When healthy, Murray has flashed the kind of dual-threat ability that made him a No. 1 overall pick. He’s elusive in the pocket, has a live arm, and has made plays that only a handful of quarterbacks in the league can replicate.
The issue, of course, is consistency-and durability. Injuries have slowed his progress, and his hefty contract adds another layer of complexity for any team considering a trade.
But for the Jets, who are desperate for stability under center, Murray represents something they haven’t had in years: a quarterback with legitimate upside and Pro Bowl potential. He’s still just 26, and if New York believes he can stay healthy and thrive in their system, he could be a game-changer.
The Cost: No. 16 and the Cap Hit
Giving up the No. 16 pick would sting, no question. That’s a premium spot in the draft, especially in a year where the Jets also hold the No. 2 overall selection. But if they’re confident in their ability to land a difference-maker at No. 2-whether it’s a top-tier offensive tackle, a defensive cornerstone, or even another quarterback prospect-they might be willing to part with the second first-rounder to solve their QB dilemma.
The real hurdle might be the financials. Murray’s contract isn’t cheap, and taking it on would require some cap gymnastics. But this is the NFL-creative front offices find ways to make the numbers work when they believe they’ve found their guy.
The Cardinals’ Side of the Deal
From Arizona’s perspective, moving on from Murray would signal a full reset. In this scenario, they’d likely target a quarterback like Ty Simpson in the draft.
Simpson is a bit of a wild card-he’s got just one year of starting experience, which historically hasn’t been a great indicator of NFL success. But he checks some important boxes: arm strength, mobility, and flashes of high-level playmaking.
He’s not a plug-and-play starter, but with the right development plan-perhaps sitting behind a veteran for a year-he could grow into a long-term solution. For the Cardinals, this would be about resetting the clock on their rebuild and giving themselves financial flexibility moving forward.
Where the Jets Go From Here
Whether or not the Jets pull the trigger on a trade like this, the bottom line remains the same: they need a quarterback. They’ve tried the stopgap route.
They’ve taken swings in the draft. And they’ve watched a playoff-caliber defense get wasted by inconsistent quarterback play.
Murray isn’t a perfect solution, but he’s a proven one. If the Jets believe they can keep him healthy and build an offense around his strengths, this could be the kind of bold move that changes the franchise’s trajectory.
With two first-round picks and a front office that’s shown a willingness to be aggressive, the Jets are in position to make something happen. Whether it’s Murray, a rookie, or another name entirely, one thing is clear: the quarterback decision this offseason will define the next chapter for Gang Green.