The Aaron Rodgers experiment in New York unofficially got here to an finish on February 13 when the group introduced that they had been parting methods with the longer term Corridor of Fame quarterback after two uneventful seasons. For a franchise that has struggled for over a decade to discover a constant signal-caller, this newest setback locations the Jets at one more crossroads.
With a roster brimming with potential on each side of the ball and a entrance workplace keen to finish the NFL’s longest energetic playoff drought—having not made the postseason since 2010—the Jets should make their subsequent transfer fastidiously. Ought to they guess on a veteran quarterback with expertise? Or would a younger, high-upside participant present a greater long-term resolution?
With a number of names set to hit the free-agent market and the NFL Draft looming in April, the Jets have a number of choices to discover. However whatever the route they take, they want a quarterback who can’t solely information them to the playoffs but in addition assist them compete as soon as they get there. Right here’s a take a look at the highest 5 real looking choices the Jets might wager on to exchange Aaron Rodgers in 2025.
Kirk Cousins: The Confirmed Veteran
If the Jets are searching for a quarterback who may also help them win instantly, Kirk Cousins may be their greatest guess. A four-time Professional Bowler, Cousins has been one of many league’s most constant passers over the previous decade, able to making huge performs and main an environment friendly offense.
Earlier than an Achilles harm ended his 2023 season, Cousins was placing collectively the most effective statistical years of his profession, throwing for over 2,300 yards with 18 touchdowns and simply 5 interceptions in solely eight video games. As a member of the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, Cousins bounced again, recording a 7-7 season with 18 touchdowns and 3508 yards.
Nonetheless, the largest hurdle may be monetary. Cousins might be probably the most sought-after free brokers available on the market, and his price ticket may be greater than New York needs to pay. The Jets have already got monetary commitments to Rodgers and different key gamers, which means they’d should maneuver their cap area correctly.
Justin Fields: The Excessive-Upside Playmaker
After an up-and-down tenure with the Chicago Bears, Justin Fields discovered himself in Pittsburgh final season, the place he break up the QB1 function with Russell Wilson. Now set to enter free company, Fields nonetheless has quite a bit to show. At simply 25 years previous, he brings a dual-threat ingredient to the sport that few quarterbacks possess.
Fields’ largest situation has been consistency. Whereas he has flashed brilliance, notably as a runner, his decision-making and accuracy have been issues. Nonetheless, his bodily instruments make him an intriguing possibility, and given his age, he may very well be a long-term resolution for a group prepared to develop him correctly.
The percentages of Fields touchdown with the Jets rely upon whether or not the Steelers resolve to maintain him. If he turns into obtainable, the Jets might make a play for him, particularly in the event that they consider he presents extra upside than their present in-house choices.
Tyrod Taylor: The Dependable In-Home Choice
Taylor spent final season backing up Rodgers and is below contract for an additional yr. Given his familiarity with the system, the Jets would possibly view him because the most secure, most cost-effective possibility.
Taylor has loads of beginning expertise, having served because the QB1 for Buffalo, Cleveland, and the New York Giants at varied factors in his profession. Whereas he’s by no means been a star, he’s a succesful recreation supervisor who can keep away from turnovers and preserve an offense on schedule.
If the Jets decide to draft a quarterback and want a gradual veteran to function a bridge starter, Taylor makes numerous sense. Whereas he’s unlikely to raise the group into speedy Tremendous Bowl competition, he might present stability whereas a youthful participant develops behind him.
Jordan Travis: The Unknown Issue
As a fifth-round decide within the 2024 NFL Draft, Jordan Travis was at all times considered as a long-term mission. Sadly, he spent his whole rookie season recovering from a major ankle harm, leaving his improvement in query.
Whereas with Florida State, Travis confirmed the flexibility to increase performs and make throws on the run, making him an intriguing possibility, however the Jets might not be prepared to gamble on an unproven second-year participant as their Week 1 starter.
The marketplace for Travis as a possible starter is unclear, and it’s extra possible that the Jets herald a veteran whereas permitting him to develop additional.
The 2025 NFL Draft: A Lengthy-Time period Play?
If the Jets wish to discover their quarterback of the longer term, the NFL Draft presents a possibility. They presently maintain the seventh total decide, which means they might have entry to a number of the high quarterback prospects.
Miami’s Cam Ward is extensively thought to be essentially the most NFL-ready passer within the class, although he’s additionally anticipated to be taken throughout the high three picks. Would the Jets be prepared to commerce as much as safe him?
Different prospects, reminiscent of Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart, is also choices later within the first spherical. Nonetheless, betting on a rookie quarterback at all times comes with dangers, as improvement is rarely assured.
Closing Ideas
The Jets’ resolution at quarterback will form their speedy and long-term future. In the event that they wish to win now, Cousins is the most secure wager—if they will afford him. Fields presents extra upside however comes with some threat. Taylor is the regular, low-cost possibility, whereas Travis stays a wild card. Lastly, the draft presents an opportunity at a contemporary begin, however it could require endurance.
On this planet of on-line betting, the Jets’ quarterback scenario is without doubt one of the most unpredictable matters heading into the 2025 season. Who will take the primary snap below heart in Week 1? No matter what route they resolve to maneuver in, the Jets can’t afford to make the fallacious resolution but once more.
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