Just when you think the worst ideas in regards to how to fix the Jets QB situation comes from “randos” on x, along comes ESPN and outdoes all of them.
From the worldwide leader in sports, an nfl executive said the Jets would have available to them, Geno Smith, Tua Tagovaiola or Kyler Murray. And no, we’re not joking.
Directly from ESPN.com:
This notion isn’t exactly bold — all three quarterbacks appear to not be in the long-term plans of their current franchises. But they are each former Pro Bowlers and several teams have a glaring need at the position each year.
“Do the Jets get one of those three — that’s really the question I have,” an AFC executive said. “They could go young and load up for the 2027 draft of quarterbacks, but the head coach [Aaron Glenn] probably needs to win, so he might need more of a reliable option.”
Miami and Arizona are saddled with large guarantees on deals with Tagovailoa and Murray, respectively. Murray would make more sense to New York, given Tagovailoa’s ties to the AFC East, but not everyone is convinced Arizona owner Michael Bidwill would pay a significant portion of Murray’s $37 million in guarantees for him to not play in Arizona. Smith’s contract is more manageable, with $18.5 million already guaranteed for 2026 (another $8 million becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the new league year). The 35-year-old spent his first four seasons with the Jets, throwing 28 touchdowns and 36 interceptions before moving on.
The Jets will need to make significant plans for a veteran passer regardless.
Let’s look at each one realistically.
Geno Smith: Say what you will about Woody Johnson, but even this move is beneath him. The owner is going to try to sell the fan base on a new quarterback as he raises ticket prices yet again. There is no way he’s going to sign off on bringing in a former malcontent as his production dips to unacceptable levels after enjoying a few good seasons.
Tua Tagovailoa: Tua’s extensive and concerning concussion history should make him an automatic “NO” for the Jets. Especially if the plan is to draft a quarterback who won’t be rushed into action.
Kyler Murray: An undesirable option who would be the “best” of the three. You can at least say Murray is young(ish), has had some success and beat you with his arm and legs. There would of course be questions about his work ethic, but the Jets would have to dismiss that and say it has been overblown or he outgrew his laid back approach.