It’s often called the most important position in sports, and nowhere is that more evident than in the NFL. The New York Jets learned that lesson the hard way last season.
At various points, Justin Fields, Brady Cook, and Tyrod Taylor all took turns under center. The results were underwhelming. They produced just three combined wins. No one notched a passer rating over 62.7. There was a near-even split of 14 touchdowns to 13 interceptions.
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It wasn’t good enough, and everyone knew it. The organization promised change, and it delivered something, sort of. Bringing back Geno Smith wasn’t what most expected. That brings familiarity, a reunion if you will, but there isn’t any certainty. Head coach Aaron Glenn has voiced confidence, stating that Smith is the man who can lead them to the promised land, yet questions remain.
Is Smith a bridge or the answer? Some might suggest the former is the more realistic outcome. With that eyes turn to another NFL Draft.
One of the most loyal fan bases in all of sports watched in horror as Sam Darnold won a Super Bowl with another organization, and against the New England Patriots, nonetheless. Something must be done.
The Jets hold two of the coming NFL Draft’s first 16 picks, including the second overall. They have a chance to add a potential franchise player. Here are the best (and most realistic) options if they determine they need to invest in a quarterback.
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If Fernando Mendoza goes first overall as expected, Simpson becomes the most logical target at No. 2. He carried Alabama through stretches of the season, showcasing accuracy, anticipation, and the ability to push the ball downfield into tight windows.
His 3,500-yard, 28-touchdown campaign flashed legitimate starting traits, particularly in big wins over top competition.
There are questions. He has limited starting experience and less-than-ideal size, but Simpson’s upside is clear. At worst, he profiles as a capable starter with the right support. At best, he could grow into something more. He is the second-best QB prospect in this class, and some believe many of his traits exceed those of Mendoza.
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2. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Tigers
Nussmeier’s numbers don’t jump off the page, and his season ended on a sour note due to injury. Still, his strong Senior Bowl showing reminded evaluators why he’s intriguing.
He projects as a potential mid-round value, someone in the mold of a steady, system-friendly starter. Not flashy, but functional. For a team that has lacked stability, that may carry more value than it seems.
Allar’s evaluation is complicated by injury, but the tools are evident. He’s efficient, protects the football, and operates well within structure.
The question is ceiling versus floor. If healthy, he offers developmental upside. If not, he may settle into a safer, lower-impact projection.
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Carson Beck may be the most polished pure passer of the group. His 72 percent completion rate and 30 touchdowns highlight his ability to dissect defenses from a clean pocket.
However, pressure remains his Achilles’ heel. When kept upright, he looks the part of an NFL starter. When hurried, the inconsistencies show up.
Worth mentioning: The Jets don’t just need a quarterback. They need conviction. Whether it’s swinging big on Ty Simpson or finding value later in the draft, the worst outcome would be hesitation.
They’ve lived that story before.
With two premium picks and a fan base desperate for stability, this is a moment that will define the franchise’s direction for years to come. If they get it right, everything changes. If they don’t, the cycle continues.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Jets’ 5 best quarterback options to watch