Five quarterbacks NY Jets could target after Aaron Rodgers injury nightmare
Aaron Rodgers and the passionate Super Bowl expectations of the New York Jets were short-lived, ending after four plays when the quarterback suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 1.
As they consider their next steps, the team has several options for their quarterback position. They can continue with Zach Wilson - as coach Robert Saleh made clear they will do on Tuesday - bring in an experienced player through free agency as competition, or acquire a QB who needs more playing time as the top passer.
The Jets, though, do possess a roster beaming with offensive talent, and securing the correct quarterback could position them as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. In the first game of the season against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson threw for 140 yards and one touchdown, completing 14 of 21 passes. However, he did have one crucial interception.
With all the options in mind, here are five quarterbacks the Jets may consider as they navigate the rest of their NFL season.
Carson Wentz of the Washington Commanders warms up last year as QB1 (2022 Scott Taetsch)Carson Wentz
Wentz's performance in the previous season with the Washington Commanders left much to be desired, ultimately leading to his release before free agency. He saw action in eight games, throwing for 11 touchdowns, but also had nine interceptions. Furthermore, he posted a career-low in passing yards with just 1,755 and suffered 159 yards lost due to being sacked 26 times.
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Despite his challenging year, Wentz's seven years of NFL experience hold potential value for a team like the Jets, who now need a quarterback. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated his ability to orchestrate 11 fourth-quarter comebacks and engineer 12 game-winning drives.
Ryan Tannehill of the Tennessee Titans calls a play during Week 1 against the SaintsRyan Tannehill
If the Jets never traded for Rodgers, Tannehill was considered one of their top options to provide leadership for Wilson. Tannehill had a challenging Week 1 performance (completing 16 of 34 passes for 198 yards, zero touchdowns, and three interceptions). At 35 years of age, trading Tannehill would also result in substantial savings for the Titans, estimated at $27 million (£21.6m) according to Over the Cap.
If the Tennessee Titans have confidence in young quarterbacks like Malik Willis or Will Levis, exploring a trade to the Jets involving Tannehill could align with their long-term plans and financial considerations. The veteran would be able to manage the clock and keep the Jets afloat until the return of Rodgers.
Matt Ryan speaks with Indianapolis Colts ex-quarterbacks coach Scott MilanovichMatt Ryan
Following his one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts, Ryan took to Twitter to express that while his time with the team had concluded. However, he maintained his physical condition in case another NFL franchise called.
Ryan hinted at his desire to continue playing elsewhere and somewhat candidly characterized his 18-month tenure with the Colts as a challenging experience as "A s***show of 18 months."
Rodgers being out allows Ryan to move immediately into a starting role with a formidable NFL team. It would also create yet another proven veteran for Wilson to learn from.
Trey Lance warms up for the 49ers prior to being traded to the Dallas Cowboys (Getty Images)Trey Lance
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Wilson and Trey Lance were selected as the second and third picks. Neither young QB has yet to fully reach their potential, with Wilson being benched numerous times and Lance already going to his second team after the San Francisco 49ers traded him to the Dallas Cowboys during the preseason.
The Cowboys acquired Lance from the 49ers in exchange for a fourth-round pick, which did not sit well with their starting quarterback, Dak Prescott, causing discord in the locker room. Given this situation, there is speculation that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones might consider making a favourable trade by using Lance and their fourth-round pick to acquire a third-round selection or even a combination of a third and a fourth or fifth-round pick from the New York Jets.
The Jets could benefit from acquiring Lance as a quarterback at a lower cost than other veteran options in free agency. However, Lance shares the same lack of experience for leadership compared to Wilson.
The former 49ers QB has mobility that could provide new options for offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and assist in developing the young quarterback. He could also create a competitive dynamic for Wilson and Lance, pushing them to increase their skills.
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Jameis Winston of the New Orleans Saints was replaced by Derek Carr and could be an option for the JetsJameis Winston
Although Winston was a beloved leader among the Saints, he may have to look elsewhere to realise his aspirations of becoming a starter. Derek Carr is firmly established as the Saints' starter for the foreseeable future, and Taysom Hill is a proven utility player who can also play the position. Winston was disheartened by his benching last year, and the Saints may consider facilitating his transition to a starting role elsewhere.
Despite facing injury challenges at 29, Winston possesses a big-arm talent that could complement a strong supporting cast like the Jets' offer. Over the past two seasons, he has thrown 18 touchdowns and eight interceptions. In 2019, he threw for 5,109 yards and 33 touchdowns, although he also recorded 30 interceptions.
Winston could be the most attractive choice among the Jets quarterback options, and his acquisition wouldn’t command an outrageous price. The 29-year-old is also young enough to be a solid transition QB if Rodger’s time in the league ends earlier than expected.
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