The New York Jets have made some bold moves in the quarterback department, and the financial implications are significant. Last offseason, the Jets decided to cut ties with Aaron Rodgers, and this offseason, they traded Justin Fields to the Kansas City Chiefs. These decisions have left a noticeable dent in their wallet.
The Jets struggled last season, finishing with a 3-14 record. Fields found himself benched in favor of Tyrod Taylor, while Rodgers, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, led his team to the playoffs.
Rodgers wrapped up the 2025 season with an impressive 3,322 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. In contrast, the Jets’ quarterback trio of Fields, Taylor, and Brady Cook combined for 2,777 passing yards and 14 touchdowns.
Financially, the Jets were on the hook for $10 million of Fields' guaranteed salary, part of a $20 million total. To make the trade happen, they ended up paying $7 million.
As for Rodgers, the big question remains: Will he suit up for another NFL season? With a career tally of 527 passing touchdowns and 66,274 passing yards across his stints with the Packers, Jets, and Steelers, the four-time MVP has nothing left to prove.
Looking ahead, the Jets will see Geno Smith return as their starting quarterback. Smith, acquired from the Las Vegas Raiders, is no stranger to New York, having started his career there.
His first stint wasn't the smoothest, with a 12-18 record, 5,962 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 36 interceptions. However, Smith has since evolved, boasting 22,168 passing yards, 124 touchdowns, and 89 interceptions, along with two Pro Bowl selections and the 2022 AP Comeback Player of the Year Award.
With the second pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Jets have the opportunity to select a new quarterback, potentially reshaping their future.
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